• Talks focus on public health, biotechnology, education and vaccine collaboration

Health and Mass Media Minister Dr Nalinda Jayatissa has held discussions with Cuban Ambassador to Sri Lanka Patricia Lazara Pego Guerra on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the health sector.

The meeting took place at the Ministry of Health and Mass Media and focused on expanding longstanding ties between the two countries.

During the discussions, the Minister noted Cuba's contribution to Sri Lanka's healthcare sector, particularly in public health and biotechnology.

Ambassador Pego Guerra referred to Cuba's support for mosquito control programmes, dengue prevention efforts, pharmaceutical production and opportunities for Sri Lankan students to pursue medical education in Cuba through scholarship programmes.

The discussions also covered vaccine cooperation, including Cuba's Abdala Covid-19 vaccine, and possibilities for future collaboration in vaccine development and production.

The Ambassador further reaffirmed Cuba's commitment to strengthening cooperation in healthcare, sports, agriculture and climate-related initiatives.

She also introduced a portable Cuban-made emergency medical kit designed for use in disaster situations and field-based medical treatment.