The Caribbean Community (Caricom) marked the 53rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago at an event held at the Latin American School of Medicine. The commemoration highlights the breaking of political isolation imposed by the United States and the ongoing commitment to regional solidarity. President Miguel Díaz-Canel emphasized Caribbean brotherhood in facing common challenges.
The event took place at the Latin American School of Medicine, inaugurated 26 years ago by Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz as a symbol of revolutionary support for regional nations to promote people's well-being. This commemoration underscores the historic step that broke the political isolation imposed by the United States on the island in 1972.
The ceremony was presided over by First Vice President Inés María Chapman Waugh, Deputy Foreign Minister Josefina Vidal Ferreiro, the Ambassador of Dominica and pro tempore president of the group of Caribbean ambassadors, His Excellency Ian Charles Douglas, and other members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Cuba.
In her keynote address, Chapman stated: "The friendship between Cuba and the Caribbean countries breaks the mold; we can show concrete and transformative results. More than 1,400 Cuban specialists in health, education, construction, and other sectors offer their services to our brothers and sisters in all Caricom countries, benefiting many communities."
She also expressed the "immense gratitude of the Cuban people and government to their Caribbean brothers and sisters," who have always been the first to lend a hand in the most difficult times.
For his part, Ambassador Douglas said: "This anniversary is a clear reminder of the enduring value of Caribbean solidarity. It reaffirms that cooperation, born of respect, shared struggles, and a common vision, can withstand geopolitical changes and continue to meet the needs of the people."
President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez posted on his social media: "United by Caribbean brotherhood, we continue to face common challenges together and build a future of justice and solidarity for our peoples."
This celebration strengthens mutual cooperation ties amid regional challenges.