The government of India has dispatched a shipment of crucial medicines to Cuba this Friday, as humanitarian aid to assist in the island's recovery following the devastation caused by Hurricane Rafael last November. This information was shared through an official statement.
This aid package consists of antibiotics, fever reducers, painkillers, oral solutions, and muscle relaxants, as announced by Randhir Jaiswal, the official spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, on the social platform X.
Strengthening Ties Between Nations
The Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that this contribution from India underscores the strong bonds cherished by the two nations, which are celebrating the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic relations this year.
This marks the second humanitarian shipment from New Delhi to the Caribbean nation in just over six months. In June 2024, the Indian government provided raw materials to support Cuba's pharmaceutical production, which included 90 tons of nine active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) produced in India.
Addressing Cuba's Severe Drug Shortage
According to India's Ministry of External Affairs at the time, these resources were intended for Cuban drug manufacturers to produce essential antibiotics in various dosage forms, such as tablets, capsules, syrups, and injections, necessary for treating chronic infectious diseases.
Cuba has been grappling with a severe shortage of medications for years, amidst a deepening crisis in the national public health system, which is also plagued by a lack of other medical supplies, equipment, and healthcare personnel. By the end of 2024, the Cuban regime admitted that more than 70% of essential medicines were missing in the country.
The Impact of Economic and Political Decisions
Official reports indicate that of the 651 products listed in the Basic Drug Chart, 461 are either completely unavailable or have limited supply, meaning more than 70% of these basic drugs are out of reach or difficult to access for the Cuban population.
Due to the scarcity of medicines and various resources, from primary care to the hospital system, public health is one of the most neglected sectors in Cuba, a result of the regime's economic and political decisions. Nevertheless, the government consistently blames the U.S. embargo for the healthcare crisis in the country.
Understanding the Humanitarian Aid from India to Cuba
What types of medicines did India send to Cuba?
The donation included antibiotics, fever reducers, painkillers, oral solutions, and muscle relaxants.
Why is Cuba facing a medicine shortage?
Cuba has been experiencing a severe shortage of medicines due to a prolonged crisis in the national public health system, exacerbated by economic and political decisions of the regime and lack of medical supplies and personnel.
What did India previously donate to Cuba in June 2024?
India donated 90 tons of nine different active pharmaceutical ingredients to support Cuba's drug production.