Guyana and CARICOM Express Concerns Over US Visa Sanctions on Cuban Medical Brigades

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo of Guyana expressed concern over potential U.S. visa sanctions against countries using Cuban medical brigades. He emphasized the need for CARICOM leaders to address this collectively, as the issue could affect the entire region. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the sanctions, which could target those involved with the Cuban medical program, thereby impacting many CARICOM nations that benefit from Cuban healthcare professionals.

Vice President of Guyana, Bharrat Jagdeo, has expressed concern over the implications of potential U.S. visa sanctions targeting countries utilizing Cuba’s Overseas Medical Missions. He emphasized the necessity for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders to collectively address these sanctions with the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced that officials involved in the Cuban medical program could face visa restrictions, which would extend to their immediate families.

Guyana has historically relied on Cuban medical professionals to address public healthcare system shortages. Mr. Jagdeo articulated that this issue transcends Guyana, indicating that the newly announced U.S. policy has the potential to adversely affect all CARICOM nations and beyond. He asserted, “This is not a Guyana in-put, it is a regional issue…. it will affect every country in our region.”

Discussions among CARICOM Heads of Government have already taken place regarding the importance of maintaining cordial relations with the U.S. Administration. The Vice President noted a consensus to engage with the Trump Administration directly to present regional perspectives. He highlighted communication between U.S. Secretary of State and CARICOM leaders including President Irfaan Ali.

Mr. Jagdeo noted that the Cuban medical presence has a long-standing history in the Caribbean, contributing positively to healthcare delivery in the region. He affirmed that regional leaders will utilize dialogues with the U.S. to address various issues stemming from recent U.S. policies in trade and immigration. The Trump administration accused Cuba of exploiting forced labor practices, impacting the healthcare services available to Cubans.

The U.S. State Department claims that the labor export programs, including medical missions, bolster the Cuban regime while depriving Cubans of essential healthcare services at home. As the situation evolves, collaborative efforts among CARICOM leaders will be essential to mitigate the impact of U.S. sanctions on the region’s healthcare initiatives.

In summary, the growing discourse surrounding potential U.S. visa sanctions on CARICOM nations due to the use of Cuban medical brigades highlights a critical regional healthcare dilemma. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has urged collective action among CARICOM leaders to engage constructively with the U.S. The outcome of these dialogues could significantly impact healthcare delivery in Caribbean countries dependent on Cuban medical support.

Original Source: newssourcegy.com