Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning rejected the extension of visa restrictions to Cuban and third country officials related to medical services abroad.

Mao stressed that Washington’s accusations of “forced labor” in Cuban medical programs are unfounded.

The diplomat recalled that, for more than 60 years, the Caribbean country has sent more than 600,000 health professionals to 60 nations, including those in the Caribbean. These workers provided medical care to more than 230 million people, performed more than 17 million surgeries and saved at least 12 million lives.

Mao pointed out that Cuban medical services have been well received by governments and populations in the region. The spokeswoman stressed that the accusation of “forced labor” is an excuse used by Washington to repress countries with different positions.

ef/arm/oda/idm