Webinar-Cuban Medical Cooperation Under Threat: The Caribbean Response

Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies, Trinidad and Tobago
Friday, May 23, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m | Platform:Hybrid

The Caribbean has a longstanding tradition of medical collaboration, notably through the Cuban Medical Cooperation Programme. This partnership has played a vital role in addressing regional healthcare challenges and enhancing medical services across CARICOM nations. However, recent geopolitical pressures, including accusations from the U.S. government against Cuban health initiatives, threaten the sustainability of these vital programs. This webinar seeks to examine the current status of Cuban medical cooperation in the Caribbean and explore strategies to respond to these challenges.

Objectives
– To provide a comprehensive overview of Cuban medical cooperation initiatives within the CARICOM region, with a focus on Trinidad and Tobago.
– To analyze the challenges faced in maintaining these programs amid ongoing U.S. sanctions and hostility.
– To identify opportunities for strengthening Cuban health collaborations and effectively counter U.S. allegations.
– To facilitate a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange among Caribbean experts and stakeholders.

Moderator & Panelists
Chair: Dr. Marlon Anatol

Speakers:
– Ambassador Gustavo Daniel Véliz Olivares, Cuban Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago
– Dr. Orlando Díaz Gómez, National Coordinator of the Cuban Medical Brigade in Trinidad and Tobago
– Mr. Ian Daniel, Dean of Labour Studies, Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies

Agenda
– 10:00 a.m. – Master of Ceremonies: Dr. Saadiqa Khan
– 10:05 – 10:10 a.m.– Welcome and Introduction by Dr. André Vincent Henry, Director, Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies
– 10:10 – 10:30 a.m.– Presentation 1: Overview of Cuban Medical Cooperation in the Caribbean — Ambassador Gustavo Daniel Véliz Olivares
– 10:30 – 10:45 a.m. – Presentation 2: Cuban Medical Cooperation in Trinidad and Tobago: Labour Conditions and Contributions— Dr. Orlando Díaz Gómez
– 10:45 – 11:00 a.m. – Presentation 3: The Caribbean’s Response to U.S. Accusations — Mr. Ian Daniel
– 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. – Q&A Session
– 11:30 a.m. – Closing Remarks by Dr. André Vincent Henry