Geneva. May 21, 2024. - UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima visited Cuba from May 6 to 9. During her visit, and in the attached article, the country's progress in HIV prevention and treatment was recognized.
Ms. Byanyima met with Cuban authorities, scientists, journalists and activists, and highlighted the country's pioneering achievements. She praised the production of COVID-19 vaccines, the country's scientific and biotechnological capabilities, and expressed optimism about the possibility of finding a definitive cure for AIDS.
She also stressed the importance of international cooperation. She emphasized the country's potential to lead South-South cooperation initiatives in the fight against HIV, and to serve as a model for other developing countries, particularly in the transfer of health technologies and knowledge.
Ms. Byanyima noted that Cuba's medical education and training of health professionals, who work all over the world, are clear examples of Cuba's commitment to global cooperation. During her visit to the Latin American School of Medicine, she highlighted how these efforts contribute to sustainable development goals and the elimination of HIV.
Cuba has adopted a comprehensive approach to combating HIV, aligning itself with the UNAIDS 2030 strategy, which aims to achieve the 95-95-95 targets: diagnose 95% of people living with HIV, provide treatment to 95% of those diagnosed, and achieve viral suppression for 95% of those treated. This joint effort underlines the strong partnership between Cuba and the United Nations.
Ms. Byanyima stressed that, despite the challenges faced by Cuba due to the impact of “sanctions” (referring to the US blockade), the country remains committed to global health equity and HIV elimination. UNAIDS is committed to supporting Cuba in sharing its experiences and expertise with other nations, in order to foster international cooperation.
Permanent Mission of Cuba in Geneva
