Cuba and China are developing an ambitious project in health and the scientific-technical sphere.

By María Josefina Arce 

Cuba and China are working on an ambitious project in health and the scientific-technical sphere, showcasing the close cooperation between the two nations, which over the years has resulted in benefits for both peoples. 

This strong bond has enabled the creation of a Joint Cuban University in China's Hebei province, involving Cuba's Ministries of Public Health and Higher Education, as well as Havana's University of Medical Sciences. 

The initiative includes the establishment of an International Institute of Medical Sciences, with the participation of Cuban healthcare professionals internationally recognized for their high level of expertise. 

Additionally, work is underway to build a hospital annexed to the institute. This hospital will enhance academic training by integrating Cuba's extensive medical experience with China's advancements in artificial intelligence—a technology that has been gaining ground globally. 

The broad bilateral collaboration in health-related aspects finds one of its greatest expressions in biotechnology, as evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Citizens of the Asian giant infected with the novel coronavirus benefited from Cuban biotechnology products like Recombinant Alpha Interferon 2B, one of 30 medications approved by Beijing in its treatment protocols for the disease. 

One strength of bilateral collaboration contributing to healthcare is the Cuba-China joint ventures in biotechnology. 

A significant development was the inauguration of a new 100% Cuban company at the end of last year in Hebei province, aimed at driving research projects. 

There is immense potential to continue developing ties between Cuba and China in the biotechnology sector in an increasingly successful and impactful manner. 

This is why this area was a focal point during the Cuba-China Cooperation Forum held in Havana as part of the Fifth International Convention Cuba-Salud 2025. 

Cuba and China have much to contribute to the health sector. To achieve this, they are devising strategies and exploring new opportunities for collaboration to improve healthcare services and provide effective responses to infectious disease emergencies, all in the interest of the people's welfare.