The leaders of the United States, Cuba, and the Caribbean Community must engage in meaningful debate that promotes economic stability, healthcare, and security. “Isolation and confrontation will only serve to deepen our struggles. Cooperation, on the other hand, will elevate us all,” Drew emphasized.
As a sovereign nation, Saint Kitts and Nevis will always make decisions aligning with the best interests of our people, the president emphasized, adding that under his leadership, Basseterre will remain a voice for justice and sustainable development on the world stage and will continue to engage both Cuba and the United States.
The Associated Times highlighted that Drew praised the continued support Cuban medical cooperation provides to his country, where Cuban doctors are treated with dignity. “Cuban medical personnel contribute to strengthening our health system,” Drew noted, clarifying that there are ties of equity and respect, in addition to enjoying the same rights and privileges as their local colleagues.
The Primer Minister expressed: “Since 2003, St. Kitts and Nevis has welcomed Cuban professionals who came not as strangers, but as family, helping us build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient nation and where the have saved numerous lives.”
Regarding labor practices, Drew dismissed all accusations of exploitation by the United States and assured that Cuban personnel receive compensation according to the pay scale established by the local government. “We have never tolerated, nor will we tolerate, human trafficking practices on our shores or anywhere else,” he reaffirmed.
Cuban medical personnel in St. Kitts and Nevis receive comfortable housing at government expense and enjoy fair working conditions, including vacation time and standard work hours, Drew said.
The prime minister’s statements defending the presence of Cuban medical personnel come against the backdrop of the United States government threats to sanction countries that admit Cuban health personnel into their care programs.
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