Minister Cummings expressed his gratitude for Cuban Support 

By Val Matthias. Updated 5:15 p.m., Friday, December 12, 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

Cuba and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines reaffirmed their long-standing medical partnership during a courtesy meeting between Cuban Ambassador Carlos Ernesto Rodríguez Etcheverry and newly appointed Minister of Health, Wellness and Energy, Minister Daniel Cummings. The talks underscored both governments’ commitment to strengthening healthcare collaboration, particularly through the Cuban Medical Brigade, which has supported the Vincentian health system for over two decades. 

The meeting highlighted the contributions of Cuban specialists in primary care, surgery, internal medicine, diagnostic imaging, and ophthalmology, as well as the impact of community health initiatives. Minister Cummings expressed gratitude for Cuba’s sustained support, noting that Cuban professionals have been decisive in expanding public access to essential services. He signaled interest in expanding cooperation in human-resource training and emerging public health areas. 

Ambassador Rodríguez Etcheverry reiterated Cuba’s readiness to deepen ties, describing medical cooperation as an expression of solidarity and brotherhood. Both sides also explored future opportunities, including telemedicine, academic exchanges, and joint programmes to address chronic diseases. 

The discussions, attended by Permanent Secretary of Health Mrs. Nerissa Gittens and Head of the Cuban Medical Brigade Dr. Ulises Castillo Sanz, concluded with agreement to maintain close dialogue and pursue new initiatives aimed at improving health outcomes in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. 

For over 20 years, Cuban doctors, nurses, and specialists have been stationed in SVG, providing services in primary care, surgery, internal medicine, diagnostic imaging, and ophthalmology.

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