Solidarity, cooperation and friendship unite these two Caribbean nations, which are both concerned about climate change and aspire to work for the development and well-being of their citizens

by María Josefina Arce

Solidarity, cooperation and friendship unite these two Caribbean nations, which are both concerned about climate change and aspire to work for the development and well-being of their citizens.

This month marks thirty years since the two states established diplomatic relations, and the strong bond between them was confirmed by Prime Minister Terrance Drew's visit to our territory.

Collaboration in health matters, initiated in 1996, is a fundamental pillar of these ties and has strengthened over time. Cuban professionals have worked and continue to work in this sector in our sister nation.

Recently, for the first time, new medical specialties have been introduced to improve the quality of life for the population.

The regular updating of the cooperation agreement in this area demonstrates the high level of acceptance of Cuban healthcare among St. Kitts and Nevis citizens and the importance that the authorities attach to it.

Education is another area in which the two countries enjoy a successful partnership. Over one hundred young people from San Cristóbal have graduated from universities in the Greater Antilles.

Since last year, Cuba has doubled the number of scholarships it grants to St. Kitts and Nevis annually.

During the pandemic, the solidarity between the two peoples was evident. In the face of a United States-imposed blockade that made acquiring necessary supplies more difficult, the authorities of that sister nation sent aid to the Cubans.

In turn, Havana sent a brigade from the Henry Reeves Contingent, which joined forces with San Cristobalan and Cuban colleagues already on the ground to confront the disease caused by the new coronavirus.

According to reports, Cuban professionals provided over 60,000 consultations and took over 20,000 PCR samples during more than a year.

St. Kitts and Nevis's courageous stance is also worthy of note, as despite pressures and threats from the enemies of the revolution, it has supported the Cuban people in their struggle against the genocidal economic siege all these years, a situation it has denounced in various international forums.

Cuba and St. Kitts and Nevis have forged a close relationship in which they support each other, sharing interests and a desire to work for the common good of all Caribbean nations.