The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed profound regret over Jamaica’s decision to discontinue their longstanding medical cooperation agreement, attributing the move to undue pressure from the United States government. On March 4, Jamaican authorities formally notified Cuba’s embassy of their unilateral termination of the health collaboration that has connected both Caribbean nations for over three decades.
Cuban officials characterized this development as a capitulation to US geopolitical interests that disregards the healthcare needs of the Jamaican population. The termination effectively deprives Jamaican communities of essential medical services traditionally provided by Cuban healthcare professionals.
In response to Jamaica’s actions, Havana has exercised its sovereign right to recall the entire Cuban Medical Brigade from Jamaican territory. These medical personnel depart with an enduring legacy of service, returning home with the professional satisfaction of duties fulfilled and continued readiness to extend their solidarity elsewhere.
This collaboration represents a paradigm of genuine international cooperation. Historical data reveals extraordinary achievements: approximately 4,700 Cuban medical professionals have served in Jamaica over the past 30 years alone. The current contingent of 277 specialists has made substantial contributions to strengthening Jamaica’s healthcare infrastructure.
The partnership’s quantitative impact demonstrates remarkable scope:
– Over 8.17 million patient consultations conducted
– Performance of 74,302 surgical interventions
– Assistance in 7,170 childbirth procedures
– Preservation of more than 90,000 lives through medical intervention
Additional initiatives include Operation Miracle, which has restored or enhanced vision for approximately 25,000 Jamaicans since 2010. Cuban medical expertise has also proven instrumental in disease control programs addressing malaria and COVID-19 pandemic response.
The Brigade’s dedication was particularly evident following Hurricane Melissa’s recent devastation, where Cuban medical teams maintained continuous 72-hour shifts while supporting hospital and community recovery efforts.
Despite this diplomatic setback, Cuba reaffirms its commitment to fraternal relations with the Jamaican people, emphasizing that selfless cooperation remains available whenever needed.
Official statement issued in Havana, March 6, 2026.