Mr. President,
We congratulate the Independent Expert on the tenth anniversary of her mandate, which Cuba supports. We commend international efforts to prevent mistreatment, stigmatisation, and discrimination against persons with albinism.
Education and awareness-raising activities for public opinion worldwide should be expedited.
While albinism is not common, representing a rate of 1 per 19,000 births, our country is stepping up its efforts to protect the rights of these individuals. Civil society organisations and projects play a fundamental role in this endeavour.
Guaranteeing universal and free health care, a right enshrined in our Constitution, is a top priority for the Cuban State.
The use of HeberFeron medication, manufactured by the Cuban biotechnology, improves the quality of life of the albino community in our country. This medication, to which all patients with early diagnosis have guaranteed and free access, reduces the proliferation of basal cell carcinomas, the most common type of skin cancer.
People with albinism also receive multidisciplinary care, which includes genetics, dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychology, among other specialities.
Cuba will continue to share with other nations its experiences and good practices in the protection and promotion of the rights of people with albinism.
Thank you.