Havana, 6 March 2026. — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba reports that, on 4 March, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Jamaica informed the Cuban Embassy in that country of the unilateral decision of its government to terminate the health cooperation agreement that has linked both nations for decades.
With this action, the Government of Jamaica yields to pressure from the Government of the United States, which shows no concern for the health needs of the Caribbean peoples.
Cuba deeply regrets that a history of fruitful and sustained cooperation—one that has brought countless benefits to the Jamaican people—is being disregarded in this manner, depriving them of access to the basic and specialized health services previously provided by Cuban professionals.
In light of the decision taken by the Government of Jamaica, the Government of Cuba has made the sovereign decision to proceed with the return of the Cuban Medical Brigade. These health professionals leave behind an indelible mark and return to Cuba with the satisfaction of having fulfilled their duty and with a continued willingness to assist wherever their solidarity is needed.
Cuba’s work in Jamaica stands as a clear example of genuine cooperation. Over the past 30 years alone, more than 4,700 Cuban professionals have provided medical assistance in the Caribbean island. At present, the Brigade was composed of 277 professionals, whose work has had a tangible and profound impact on strengthening Jamaica’s health system.
The historical results of this cooperation speak for themselves:
- More than 8,176,000 patients treated.
- 74,302 surgical procedures performed.
- 7,170 births attended.
- More than 90,000 lives saved.
Likewise, through the “Operation Miracle” programme, present in Jamaica since 2010, the vision of nearly 25,000 Jamaicans has been restored or improved. Cuban cooperation has also been key in projects for the control and prevention of diseases such as malaria and in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
The most recent example of this commitment was demonstrated in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which severely affected the island. Under those difficult circumstances, the Cuban Medical Brigade remained firmly at their posts, many of its members working for more than 72 consecutive hours and actively contributing to the recovery of hospitals and communities.
Faithful to the historic bonds of brotherhood and solidarity that unite Cuba and Jamaica, Cuba reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the Jamaican people, who will always be able to count on Cuba’s selfless cooperation.