The Cuban delegation to the 57th Directing Council of the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), led by Minister of Health José Ángel Portal will not be able to attend this event due to visa restrictions imposed by the government of the United States. PAHO Directing Council is the most important meeting held by health organizations of the entire region.
We express our rejection to this arbitrary action and denounce that with the denial of their visas, the government of the United States unwarrantedly violates its obligations as a host country of an international organization. Once more, this government intends to silence the voice of Cuba, an effort that adds on the campaign it has been implemented to hinder the health cooperation programs of our country with other nations.
Cuba will continue to contribute to the noble purpose of improving the health conditions and wellbeing of the countries that so request it, faithful to its solidarity and internationalist calling.