A report published on the Italia Informa website points out that, faced with Washington’s moves as part of its aggressive policy against Cuba, Calabrian authorities are firmly defending their autonomy in decision-making on a matter that directly affects the right to health.

Occhiuto told reporters that “one thing is certain: the Cuban doctors currently working in Calabria will remain in the coming years,” and alluded to increasing their number to 1,000, based on an agreement signed in mid-2022.

He referred to the constant actions taken by the US government against the program since its beginning, aimed at ending it. He confirmed the upcoming visit to the region by Mike Hammer, Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Havana, for such purpose.

More than 300 healthcare specialists working in support of the Calabrian healthcare system “have been, are, and will continue to be crucial to ensuring the functioning of emergency rooms and keeping all hospitals in our region open,” the governor emphasized.

Regarding Hammer’s upcoming visit to Calabria, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez stated in a message posted on social media that US diplomats “are dedicated to sightseeing in countries where Cuban professionals and personnel provide medical services.”

Rodriguez stated, “The mission of this trip is to try to put an end to such a necessary and humane service.”

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