The People’s Action Movement (PAM’s) Leader, Mrs. Natasha Grey-Brookes, issued a Statement on Friday Mar. 14^th, urging the Government of St. Kitts & Nevis “to stand firm” against the U.S.’ policy on the Cuban Medical Programme.

The United States has questioned the program and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused the Cuban government of accumulating profits while medical professionals work under exploitative conditions.

As a result, he recently announced an expansion of Washington’s Cuba-related visa restriction policy which targets individuals allegedly involved in forced labour linked to the Cuban labour export programme.

PAM’s Leader said in her statement on social media “for years, Cuban doctors and specialists have been the backbone of our healthcare system, saving lives and serving our people with dedication. Their impact is immeasurable.

While expressing her hope that in international best practices being upheld in recruiting Cuban professionals, she mentioned “no amount of external pressure should force us to compromise on what truly matters: the well-being of our citizens.” Mrs. Grey-Brookes added “we must stand firm. Our government must not be bullied or made to feel small.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Denzil Douglas, recently expressed the Government’s position, emphatically stating that SKN “is not part and parcel of the practice, accused by the U.S.”