Basseterre, May 12th, 2025: The Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in San Christopher and Nevis organized this weekend a commemorative act for the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations with this Federation, at the House of the Habano in Basseterre. This event saw a broad participation of the main figures of the government of this country, headed by the Governor General, Dame Marcela Liburd, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas.
On May 10th, 1995, Cuba and Saint Kitts and Nevis established diplomatic relationships. From this date our countries began to develop fraternal bonds, and since then, the links between our nations have remained positive and deepened over time.
Ambassador David Rivero, during his speech, referred to "this relationship of 30 years, forged in the mutual friendship between our nations and the foundational agreement in the defense of our fundamental principles and common interests". Likewise, he conveyed his gratitude to the people and government of this Federation, for the consistent solidarity and support against the blockade, and other fronts of struggle, such as the recent attack on our medical international collaboration. He, once again, ratified Cuba's will and commitment to maintaining existing ties and the willingness to continue strengthening them.
The cooperation in the health field is without a doubt one of the main points that has connected Saint Kitts and Nevis and Cuba for more than two decades. The education sector has been pivotal in strengthening the close ties between the two nations. "More recently -just six months ago- we embarked on another path of cooperation, this time in the sector of infrastructure and construction," said the Ambassador when announcing the presence of Cuban engineers and architects in St. Kitts, who today offer technical assistance in construction, and the management and execution of related projects.
Hollis Prentice, representing the local Alumni Association, spoke about how the relationship with Cuba goes beyond mere diplomatic relations. He emphasized that Cuba has shared vital knowledge and technical resources with other nations of the Caribbean in times of disaster and crisis, demonstrating its commitment to regional solidarity.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, reflected on the historical links between both nations, emphasizing with pride, that it was under his government as Prime Minister then, that for the first time "he accepted the generous offer of the Cuban President, His Excellency Fidel Castro, of scholarships from Cuba for students from his country. Since then, numerous young nationals from both islands of this Federation have benefitted from these scholarships to study in Cuba in various disciplines.”
In addition, he said: "The ties between our countries go beyond education. Our diplomatic missions in Basseterre and Havana, led by committed ambassadors, guarantee that our collaboration continues delving into health, culture, technical cooperation, and interpersonal exchanges.
Cuba's unconditional support for public health and disaster response, particularly the deployment of Medical Brigades, remains engraved in the heart of our people. Looking at the future, we do it with gratitude, hope, and a renewed commitment to the strengthening of this valuable alliance.”
Cheers for the friendship between the two nations and long life to mutual relations, marked the closing to this segment of the night.
In addition, in attendance were the Honourable Ministers of Sustainable Development and Environment, Senator Dr. Joyelle Clarke; Social Development and Gender Affairs, Honourable Senator Isalean Phillip; and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, Honourable Senator Garth Wilkin. Likewise, also present was the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Mr. Curtis Martin, among other officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Government in general.
Finally, there was also the presence of Members of the friendship associations, graduates in Cuba and Cubans residents, as well as a representation of Cuban health and construction professionals.
(EmbaCuba Saint Kitts and Nevis- Cubaminrex)