Carib Scope

标签： Cuba

古巴

  • To create spaces for understanding and cooperation, Cuban officials have recently held talks with representatives of the U.S. government

    To create spaces for understanding and cooperation, Cuban officials have recently held talks with representatives of the U.S. government

    In a significant diplomatic development, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez has announced the initiation of formal talks between Cuban officials and representatives of the United States government. The announcement was made during a high-level meeting at the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba, attended by members of the Political Bureau, the Secretariat, and the Executive Committee of the Council of Ministers.

    President Díaz-Canel emphasized that these discussions aim to resolve bilateral differences through constructive dialogue, facilitated by evolving international circumstances. The Cuban leadership has expressed its commitment to conducting this delicate process on principles of equality, mutual respect for political systems, sovereignty, and governmental self-determination.

    The comprehensive agenda includes identifying specific bilateral problems requiring resolution, determining mutual willingness to take concrete actions benefiting both populations, and exploring cooperative avenues to address shared security threats while promoting regional peace. The talks particularly focus on enhancing security and stability throughout Latin America and the Caribbean region.

    Díaz-Canel notably addressed the unusual nature of this public disclosure, explaining that while Cuban leadership traditionally avoids responding to speculative campaigns, the sensitivity of these negotiations warranted transparency. He characterized the process as demanding serious, responsible handling given its significant implications for bilateral relations.

    The Cuban delegation has emphasized reciprocity and adherence to International Law as fundamental principles guiding these exchanges. The president acknowledged that during periods of heightened tension with the US government, certain individuals and institutions have historically emerged to facilitate diplomatic channels, creating opportunities for understanding despite confrontational environments.

    High-ranking officials including National Assembly President Esteban Lazo Hernández, Prime Minister Manuel Marrero Cruz, and Vice President Salvador Valdés Mesa participated in the meeting, demonstrating the collective leadership approach characterizing Cuba’s decision-making process.

  • A date that is a symbol

    A date that is a symbol

    Sixty-nine years after the historic events of March 13, 1957, Cuba commemorates the courageous assault on the Presidential Palace and Operation Radio Reloj, operations that profoundly impacted Havana and the entire nation. These actions stand as enduring symbols of extraordinary bravery, selfless heroism, and unwavering commitment to revolutionary ideals.

    The operation’s legacy is powerfully encapsulated in the Political Testament of José Antonio Echeverría, who famously declared: ‘If we fall, may our blood mark the path to freedom. Whether or not our action achieves immediate success, the commotion it creates will propel us toward ultimate victory, though the people’s collective action remains decisive in achieving liberation.’

    This historical episode represents a critical chapter in Cuba’s revolutionary tradition, born from the strategic alliance between the Revolutionary Directorate and the July 26 Movement. The combatants embodied anti-imperialist principles, drew inspiration from Cuba’s rich student protest heritage, and demonstrated profound identification with the aspirations of the common people.

    The participants confronted the oppressive Batista regime with extraordinary courage, transforming ideological convictions into decisive action and revolutionary principles into unbreakable resolve. Their willingness to sacrifice everything for national liberation, even facing death with patriotic fervor, established an immortal example that continues to inspire subsequent generations.

    The enduring significance of March 13th was acknowledged by Fidel Castro during a 1961 memorial ceremony at the University of Havana, where he emphasized that while Cuba commemorates numerous historical dates, certain events achieve symbolic status worthy of perpetual national remembrance. The legacy of these revolutionaries remains deeply embedded within Cuban academic institutions and continues to serve as both inspiration and rallying banner for preserving revolutionary achievements.

  • In Cienfuegos, powered by the sun

    In Cienfuegos, powered by the sun

    Cienfuegos province has positioned itself at the forefront of Cuba’s renewable energy revolution, implementing a multifaceted solar energy program that extends far beyond conventional photovoltaic parks. While four major solar farms form the backbone of this initiative, the true transformation manifests through decentralized applications improving daily life across urban and rural communities.

    The solar transformation encompasses critical infrastructure including water pumping systems that now serve over 20,000 residents across multiple municipalities. Beginning in San Marcos settlement, the program has expanded to include 63 pumping stations with motors under 10kW capacity, particularly benefiting regions like Lajas that historically faced severe water table challenges. The Real Campiña community hosts the largest system with 64 photovoltaic modules delivering 20 liters per second.

    International cooperation has accelerated progress, with Japan funding a €63,000 project providing potable water to 1,200 residents in Abreus municipality. Meanwhile, Swiss solidarity organizations have supported artistic communities in the Escambray Mountains through solar-powered pumps serving 87 families and sustaining community gardens.

    The provincial government has additionally launched a residential solar program benefiting 470 education and health sector workers through structured payment plans. This initiative has been met with widespread appreciation, recognized both for its practical benefits and as symbolic recognition of professional dedication.

    Urban infrastructure has similarly undergone transformation with 78 solar-powered street lights now illuminating key thoroughfares including San Fernando Boulevard and José Martí Park. These installations generate daily savings of 690 kWh, translating to approximately $65,000 in annual cost reduction.

    Looking forward, Cienfuegos continues expanding its renewable capacity with construction underway on a new 5 MW photovoltaic park in the CEN-Juraguá area, part of China’s 120 MW donation package. Provincial plans envision four additional 21.87 MW facilities, potentially bringing total large-scale installations to eight. Combined with existing smaller facilities, the province’s 127 MW solar capacity now saves an estimated 41,000 tons of fossil fuels annually, demonstrating renewable energy’s tangible economic and environmental benefits.

  • The International Peoples’ Assembly stands in solidarity with Cuba

    The International Peoples’ Assembly stands in solidarity with Cuba

    A distinguished delegation from the International Peoples’ Assembly (IPA) is currently conducting an intensive fact-finding mission in Cuba to document the severe humanitarian consequences of the six-decade-long economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States. The delegation, comprising representatives from Brazil, the United States, Zambia, Colombia, Italy, India, and Argentina, aims to gather firsthand evidence of how the sanctions have crippled essential sectors including healthcare, education, transportation, and food security.

    João Pedro Stédile of Brazil’s Landless Rural Workers Movement articulated the mission’s primary objectives: expressing solidarity with the Cuban people and government, assessing the real-world impact of Washington’s policies, and developing concrete actions to counter the blockade. The delegation has already visited critical facilities including the Latin American School of Medicine and multiple hospitals, where they witnessed the acute shortage of medical supplies despite Cuba’s advanced healthcare system.

    Brian Becker, leader of the US Party for Socialism and Liberation, highlighted the particular cruelty of medicine restrictions affecting even pediatric cancer patients. Fred M’membe, president of Zambia’s Socialist Party, emphasized that Cuba represents no threat beyond ‘the kindness of its people’ and recalled Africa’s profound gratitude for Cuba’s historical support against colonialism. The delegation plans to engage with both government officials and ordinary citizens before returning to their respective countries to mobilize international solidarity efforts.

  • “We will be with you for whatever you need,” the International Peoples’ Assembly (IPA) told Cuba

    “We will be with you for whatever you need,” the International Peoples’ Assembly (IPA) told Cuba

    In a significant demonstration of international solidarity, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez convened with representatives from the International Peoples’ Assembly (IPA) at the Central Committee headquarters of the Communist Party of Cuba on Tuesday. The high-level meeting featured prominent figures including João Pedro Stedile of Brazil’s Landless Workers Movement (MST) and representatives from the U.S. Party for Socialism and Liberation.

    The delegation, engaged in an extensive program across Cuba since Sunday, had previously visited key institutions including the Latin American School of Medicine, the Fidel Castro Center, and the Martin Luther King Center. President Díaz-Canel emphasized the shared anti-capitalist and anti-colonial objectives uniting Cuba with international movements, highlighting the necessity of coordinated actions to counter what he described as U.S. hegemonic ambitions and ideological warfare.

    ‘The United States government employs force to undermine multilateralism and suppress the rights of sovereign nations,’ Díaz-Canel stated during the cordial exchange. He expressed profound appreciation for the delegation’s presence, noting that Cuba feels ‘motivated and supported by your solidarity during these challenging times.’

    In a reciprocal gesture, João Pedro Stedile conveyed the delegation’s familial connection to Cuba, assuring continued support despite geographical distances. ‘We are here to embrace you and stand ready to provide whatever assistance you may require,’ Stedile affirmed, referencing ongoing projects designed to deliver concrete aid.

    The meeting culminated in the signing of a formal Exchange and Cooperation Agreement between the Communist Party of Cuba and Brazil’s MST movement. The document, endorsed by Emilio Lozada García for Cuba and João Pedro Stedile for Brazil, establishes a framework for strengthened bilateral relations. The ceremony was attended by senior Cuban officials including Organization Secretary Roberto Morales Ojeda, Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and ICAP President Fernando González Llort.

  • Nasalferon granted sanitary registration for the treatment of acute respiratory infections

    Nasalferon granted sanitary registration for the treatment of acute respiratory infections

    Cuban health authorities have granted full regulatory approval to Nasalferon, an innovative nasal spray treatment, following conclusive evidence from Phase III clinical trials demonstrating its effectiveness against respiratory illnesses. The breakthrough medication, developed by Cuba’s Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), represents a significant advancement in accessible antiviral therapy.

    The comprehensive clinical research, conducted throughout 2025 across multiple healthcare facilities in Old Havana, yielded compelling results regarding the treatment’s protocol adherence and therapeutic performance. Trial data confirmed Nasalferon’s capacity to effectively manage and completely resolve symptoms associated with respiratory infections while maintaining an excellent safety profile.

    Nasalferon utilizes recombinant human alpha 2b interferon as its active pharmaceutical component, a well-established molecule with proven efficacy across various therapeutic applications and pharmaceutical formulations. The product had previously received conditional authorization specifically for SARS-CoV-2 infection prophylaxis during the COVID-19 pandemic. This latest approval significantly expands its indicated use to encompass general acute respiratory infections.

    With formal regulatory clearance now obtained, the medication is being distributed through community pharmacies nationwide, available to patients with appropriate medical prescriptions. The Cuban Ministry of Health has established a retail price point of 172.50 Cuban Pesos (CUP) for each 2 milliliter bottle.

    Looking toward future applications, CIGB’s research team is planning additional clinical studies to evaluate Nasalferon’s safety and efficacy in pediatric populations. This developmental pathway aims to extend the therapeutic benefits to younger patients once appropriate data collection and analysis are complete. Supported by stable manufacturing capabilities within Cuba’s robust biotechnology sector, Nasalferon stands positioned to become a mainstream therapeutic option for respiratory conditions among the Cuban population.

  • A small revolutionary State within another

    A small revolutionary State within another

    Six decades after its revolutionary triumph, Cuba continues to honor the strategic military campaign that significantly contributed to its historical transformation. The Second Eastern Front Frank País García, established on March 11, 1958, by then-Commander Raúl Castro Ruz under Fidel Castro’s directive, remains a cornerstone of Cuba’s revolutionary narrative.

    The mountainous region of Mícara in eastern Cuba served as the operational base for this sophisticated guerrilla force that eventually controlled approximately 12,000 square kilometers across what now constitutes the provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, and Holguín. During its nine-month and twenty-two-day campaign, the Front executed over 250 combat operations, captured 31 military barracks, and successfully liberated numerous towns and cities from Batista’s regime.

    Beyond military accomplishments, the 27-year-old Raúl Castro demonstrated remarkable administrative vision by establishing multiple governmental departments including Justice, Public Health, Infrastructure Development, Treasury, Education, and Propaganda. The Front established approximately 20 medical facilities and 400 educational institutions, substantially improving living conditions for mountain communities. Fidel Castro would later describe this achievement as “an exemplary model of organization, administration, and order.”

    The commemorative mausoleum at the foot of the Mícara hills serves as a permanent memorial where official ceremonies regularly honor the revolution’s heroes. The site pays particular tribute to female combatants including Vilma Espín Guillois and Asela de los Santos Tamayo, whose courageous contributions in high-risk missions remain integral to the Front’s legacy.

    The municipality of Segundo Frente, developed around the former operational territory, now features extensive socioeconomic infrastructure and modern architecture, representing the revolution’s enduring impact on regional development.

  • A daily struggle for every drop of hope

    A daily struggle for every drop of hope

    In the hemodialysis units of Cuba’s Dr. Abelardo Buch López Institute of Nephrology, patients like Zurama confront a daily reality of survival tied to medical machinery. ‘I have to depend on it,’ she states, reflecting on her post-COVID-19 renal failure diagnosis since 2020. ‘If there’s no fuel, nobody here could get hemodialysis.’

    The institute, serving 45 of Cuba’s 57 hemodialysis centers supporting over 3,000 renal replacement therapy patients, faces systemic challenges. Julio César Candelaria Brito, head of hemodialysis services, emphasizes that treatment continuity relies on an integrated system encompassing transportation, medical supplies, and electricity—all compromised by national fuel shortages.

    Critical supply deliveries, once routine, now arrive in precarious small batches. ‘We’re waiting for the truck to arrive today to ensure we can start tomorrow’s session,’ Candelaria reveals. Dialysis machines demand uninterrupted power for operation and water deionization, with aging backup batteries posing additional risks. Nurse Dairy Rodríguez Barreto confirms: ‘Without hemodialysis, the patients could die.’

    Transportation compromises have forced taxi services to limit patient shuttle routes, sometimes excluding essential companions. Nurse José Carlos Castillo Curbeco notes consequent emergency admissions when missed treatments endanger lives. The institute has prepared contingency beds for such crises.

    Director Yamilé García Villar acknowledges infrastructure strains: ‘We’ve experienced breakdowns in water treatment systems delaying sessions until 4:00 a.m.’ Despite these challenges, she affirms the program’s uninterrupted operation through staff dedication. However, U.S. economic restrictions have impeded vital annual maintenance on dialysis equipment designed for five-year lifespans, accelerating mechanical failures.

    The psychological toll compounds physical vulnerabilities. Patients experience palpable fear about treatment continuity despite assurances of political will and staff commitment. As one caregiver summarizes: ‘All illnesses have a psychological component, and the certainty that treatment is guaranteed provides well-being.’ When that certainty fractures, so does hope for Cuba’s most medically vulnerable.

  • Cuba regrets the Jamaican government’s decision to cease medical cooperation, yielding to pressure from the United States

    Cuba regrets the Jamaican government’s decision to cease medical cooperation, yielding to pressure from the United States

    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.

  • Raúl congratulates our exemplary women

    Raúl congratulates our exemplary women

    In a special commemorative message marking International Women’s Day, Army General Raúl Castro Ruz extended heartfelt congratulations to Cuba’s exemplary women, acknowledging their profound dedication and sustained contributions to the nation’s revolutionary endeavors. The statement, released from Havana on March 8th, 2026, emphasized the critical role women have played in shaping Cuba’s social and political landscape.

    Castro’s tribute highlighted the multifaceted participation of Cuban women across various sectors of society, recognizing their ongoing commitment to revolutionary principles. The message conveyed both admiration and affection, concluding with a symbolic embrace and kiss—gestures representing the nation’s appreciation for women’s past achievements and future potential.

    This public acknowledgment from one of Cuba’s most prominent revolutionary leaders underscores the official recognition of women’s integral role in the country’s development. The statement serves as both a celebration of International Women’s Day and a reaffirmation of women’s central position within Cuba’s revolutionary narrative, reflecting the government’s continued emphasis on gender equality as a fundamental component of socialist ideology.