For enhanced Cooperation in the Health Sector, India and Cuba sign a MoU

On 6^th December 2017, India and Cuba signed a Memorandum of Understanding for enhanced cooperation in the health sector. The significance of the agreement is for the exchanges in the health sector. It is also important to develop institutional framework for cooperation in health sector between two countries.

The MoU was signed by Union Health Minister JP Nadda and Public health Minister of Cuba Dr Roberto Tomas Morales Ojeda. The agreement was made in the presence of senior officers from Health Ministry and the visiting high level delegation from Cuba. The Union Minister stated that the relations between the two nations have been based on equality and justice, and are historical.

The main objective of the MoU is to create a comprehensive inter-ministerial and inter-institutional cooperation in the health sector between two countries.

Cuba has made the notable advances in the field of pharmaceuticals and bio-technology. Hence, these two have been one potential identified areas of cooperation. The other key areas of cooperation include: exchange and training of medical doctors, development of human resource, regulation of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, nutritional aspects of food intake, etc.

The objectives are aimed to be done by combining technical, financial, scientific resources, and human resources. The ultimate goal of the MoU is to upgrade the quality and reach of human and material resources in the health care sector in both the countries.

It is being decided that a Joint Working Group will be formed for the implementation of the agreement.