Pretoria - International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Luwellyn Landers says government is satisfied with Cuba’s continued support in pursuit of South Africa’s national priorities.
Deputy Minister Landers said this at the occasion of the 20th Anniversary of South Africa-Cuba Bilateral Relations held at Wits University, in Johannesburg, on Tuesday.
“You will appreciate that over 300 Cuban medical staff and engineers are working in South Africa and most of them are deployed in the peripheral areas of our beautiful land. They unselfishly render important services to our poor and marginalised communities on a daily basis.
“As you may be aware, over 400 South Africans from disadvantaged backgrounds have qualified as medical doctors through the implementation of the agreement between Cuba and South Africa.
“It is heartening to account that about 3000 South Africans are currently receiving similar training in Cuba,” he said.
He said the strength, cordiality and friendly relationship enjoins the two states to cooperate in a wide range of areas.
He said Cuba was commitment to assist South Africa’s leadership and the people in building the South Africa that all aspired to.
“It is not surprising that the implementation of the 2012 South Africa-Cuba Agreement on Cooperation in the fields of Public Health and Medical Sciences has yielded enormous results.
“We have over 30 signed bilateral agreements with Cuba which covers areas such as arts and culture, defence, education, science and technology, health services, housing and migration,” said the Deputy Minister.
Highlighting milestones achieved through South Africa’s relations with Cuba, the Deputy Minister said Cuba’s international solidarity and support for liberation struggles of the people of the South and all peace loving people of the world have been encapsulated in Cuba’s constitution since attainment of independence in 1959.
He said Cuba is a country with enormous potential for development and has proven its resilience throughout the long standing economic blockade.
“We believe that the implementation of Cuba’s Economic Assistance Package will assist in bolstering economic development and further contribute towards the betterment of lives in the island.
“Cuba remains an important global player despite longstanding economic sanctions. We acknowledge the restoration of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States of America. However, we call upon the US to once and for all lift the economic blockade,” he said.
The Anniversary was attended by the Cuban First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Marcelino Medina and his delegation. - SAnews.gov.za
