Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has emphasized the need for CARICOM leaders to collectively address potential US visa sanctions on countries using Cuban medical services. The US Secretary of State recently announced broader restrictions targeting officials supporting Cuban medical missions, which may affect healthcare systems across the Caribbean. This issue highlights the longstanding collaboration between Cuba and Caribbean nations, and the importance of direct engagement with the US government.
Guyana’s Vice President, Bharrat Jagdeo, expressed concern over the United States government’s threat to impose visa sanctions against countries utilizing Cuba’s Overseas Medical Missions. He emphasized the necessity for leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to engage in a unified dialogue with the US regarding these sanctions. Jagdeo highlighted that this matter affects not only Guyana, but also the entire Caribbean region, potentially impacting any nation connected to CARICOM.
The US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, recently declared that visa restrictions would apply to foreign officials who support Cuba’s medical program. This policy expands to include both current and former Cuban government officials and their immediate families. Guyana has relied on Cuban medical professionals to address critical shortages in its healthcare system, exemplifying the longstanding partnership between Guyana and Cuba.
Vice President Jagdeo noted that the presence of Cuban medical personnel in the Caribbean has persisted across several US administrations, contributing positively to healthcare delivery. He conveyed that CARICOM leaders are already addressing this matter in their negotiations with the US. Furthermore, they recognize the importance of fostering a healthy relationship with the current Trump administration to better represent their collective views and issues.
The regional leaders would advocate for discussions on various other concerns alongside the medical missions, including trade, commerce, and immigration policies. The Trump administration has accused Cuba of exploiting its workers through coercive labor practices, claiming that such programs benefit the Cuban regime while detracting from the medical care available to Cubans themselves. Jagdeo’s remarks encapsulate the urgency and significance of this issue for Caribbean nations.
In summary, the threat of US sanctions against countries utilizing Cuban medical brigades has sparked significant concern among Caribbean leaders, particularly in Guyana. Vice President Jagdeo has underscored the necessity for a collective response from CARICOM, given the widespread benefits of such medical missions across the region. Engaging in dialogue with the US government is crucial for addressing this and other related policy issues.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
