PRIME MINISTER TO ATTEND ALBA SUMMIT ON EBOLA

Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, has welcomed a summit in Cuba on the Ebola virus, to “coordinate regional cooperation for the prevention and control of Ebola.”

The Summit will be held in Havana, Cuba, on Monday, October 20, 2014 and will be attended by Heads of Government and State and high level officials of ALBA member countries.

Prime Minister Anthony says the summit will serve as a vital point of cooperation. According to Dr. Anthony,

“I am particularly anxious to deepen our co-operation with Cuba as that country has had extensive experience in handling tropical diseases. Cuba is known to have one of the best health care systems in the world. Their level of research and contribution to medicine is unquestionable. We need to put regional mechanisms in place to respond to any threats or incidents of Ebola. Co- operation across borders is vital if the international community is to win the fight against Ebola.”

The summit will review the situation in West Africa and will also focus on preventative measures to keep the region safe.

As part of its response to the outbreak, Cuba has sent 463 doctors and nurses to West Africa, to provide assistance to Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone. According to the Prime Minister, this is testimony of Cuba’s willingness to share their knowledge and resources to contribute to a healthier world. He is confident that should the need arise, Cuba would willingly assist the region.

The Prime Minister will be joined at the summit by the Minister of Health, Wellness and Gender Relations, Hon. Alvina Reynolds.