Drew highlighted the invaluable contribution of Cuban specialists in critical areas such as anesthesiology, oncology, neurology, and radiology, among others, adding that “they have saved lives and sustain our health system.”

He emphasized that the program has allowed for the training of local professionals in Cuba, such as Joylette Woodley, the country’s first female chief of surgery.

The president, a graduate of the Latin American School of Medicine in Havana, praised Cuba’s transparency and its focus on human resource training: “They don’t impose; they help our citizens train to reduce dependency,” he concluded.

The prime minister’s statement comes after allegations from the United States government about alleged labor exploitation by Cuban doctors and the threat of revoking visas for officials from the countries where they work.

ef/ro/ohh