St. Kitts and Nevis and the Republic of Cuba have entered a new phase of bilateral relations with the signing of a Memorandum of Intent (MOI) on 22nd May, 2025. The agreement, signed by Prime Minister and Minister of Health Dr. Terrance Drew and Cuba’s Acting Minister of Public Health, Tania Margarita Cruz Hernandez, outlines deeper cooperation between the two nations in healthcare development and medical training.
The MOI sets the framework for expanded collaboration in public health leadership, healthcare administration, and the strengthening of primary healthcare systems in St. Kitts and Nevis. It also seeks to enhance academic opportunities for aspiring medical professionals from the Federation currently studying in Cuba.
During the signing, Prime Minister Drew expressed heartfelt appreciation for Cuba’s steadfast support, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Without the Cuban healthcare professionals, it would have been extremely challenging to get through the pandemic,” he stated.
Reflecting on the long-standing relationship, Drew shared a personal account highlighting Cuba’s practical impact on national health outcomes.
“In the early 2000s, a Cuban gynaecologist, Dr. Carreras, brought our infant mortality rate and maternal mortality rate to the lowest we had ever experienced within just two years by implementing Cuban systems at the clinic level. This demonstrates that it’s not just about having medical professionals, it’s about having the right system.”
Currently, twenty-two students from St. Kitts and Nevis are enrolled in medical programmes in Cuba — thirteen at the undergraduate level and nine in postgraduate training. The new agreement is expected to broaden these academic pathways while simultaneously supporting the development of more resilient healthcare systems across the Federation.
Prime Minister Drew also addressed recent concerns about ethical international cooperation, stating:
“This cooperation is vital to our healthcare systems. Without this cooperation, healthcare systems in the Caribbean would be at risk of breaking. And we will continue to ensure that human trafficking is not a part of our medical humanitarian cooperation. Our cooperation is in accordance with the principles of international law.”
He concluded by emphasising that the memorandum marks more than a policy milestone — it symbolises a commitment to diplomacy, shared progress, and the collective health of the Caribbean region.
“This MOI will undeniably open doors for a more comprehensive and intentional approach to advancement, collaboration, and diplomatic friendship,” said Drew.
The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis continues to prioritise partnerships that strengthen national development while remaining rooted in ethical, people-centred governance. This new chapter in St. Kitts and Nevis–Cuba relations reflects a shared vision for universal healthcare, training excellence, and regional resilience.
Stay informed with the latest news and updates from SKN Source! Click here to join our WhatsApp group and get updates straight to your mobile. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more stories and insights!
Be the first to comment on "SKN, Cuba Sign Healthcare Cooperation Agreement to Advance Medical Systems"