Johannesburg, June 15 (RHC)-— Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf thanked Cuban doctors for their role in the struggle against Ebola, during a meeting with Cuban Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa, who led Cuba's delegation to the 25th Summit of the African Union.

She emphasized that the Cuban brigade worked in the most remote areas, where little infrastructure exists, and pointed to the prestige of Cuba’s public health system, education and sports.

Johnson-Sirleaf reiterated her country’s interest in strengthening bilateral relations and applauded the talks underway between Cuba and the United States to re-establish diplomatic relations.

She also praised the determination of the Cuban people who have withstood the U.S. blockade for more than 50 years, and reaffirmed Liberian and African support to ending this hostile policy.

Valdés Mesa said Cuba’s medical brigade was glad to see the eradication of Ebola in Liberia and reiterated the country’s desire to continue strengthening cooperative efforts.