Letter of the Day | Caribbean must stand in support of Cuban healthcare professionals

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The decision by the United States to deny Grenadian Government officials visas cannot be overlooked by other Caribbean states, including Jamaica, whose medical systems are buttressed by Cuban health professionals. While Grenada insists that Cuban doctors and nurses play a critical role in filling the gaps in its healthcare system, the United States has determined that its arrangement with Cuba perpetuates the ‘enslavement’ of its citizens.

Washington claims that this move is in defence of the Cuban people desperate for freedom. Yet, the United States continues to send billions of dollars to Israel to wage a military campaign against Hamas which has resulted in the virtual imprisonment, starvation and relentless bombing of Palestinians close to the point of annihilation and targeted killing of journalists who dare to report on it.

Instead of revoking visas for Israeli Government officials, its Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has been repeatedly welcomed to the White House and coddled by US politicians in Congress.

Moreover, although the United States frames its stance toward Cuba as a fight to advance democracy, it actively trades with declared communist states, most notably China, who holds over US$700 billion debt.

The glaring inconsistencies in US policy at this particular juncture in history make it hard to accept that this move against Cuban Medics and by extension Cuba, is driven purely by a desire to end the exploitation of its citizens. The fact is, despite a crushing 65-year US embargo, Cuba has achieved universal healthcare and a world-class education system, accomplishments few countries can boast of.

The Bahamas has already bowed to US demands, cancelling doctors contracts, despite admitting that they need them. But it does not end there – other Cuban professionals, including teachers, will also be targeted. Grenada’s leaders have taken a firm stance to abide by its arrangements with Cuba. But, the case of Grenada serves as a harbinger of an increasingly aggressive and punitive US foreign policy. Soon we will see who will stand with our Caribbean neighbour and who will capitulate in the face of mounting pressure.

CONCERNED CARICOM

CITIZEN