Cuba-Algeria Relations: Ambassador Hector Igarza Cabrera Highlights Historic Solidarity, Healthcare Cooperation, Anti-Imperialist Unity, and Defense of Western Sahara

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | January 03rd, 2024 — In a recent exclusive interview with La Patrie News, Cuban Ambassador to Algeria, Hector Igarza Cabrera, shed light on the profound and enduring partnership between Cuba and Algeria, emphasizing the historical solidarity, strategic cooperation, and shared revolutionary values that have defined the relationship for over six decades.

Ambassador Cabrera reaffirmed the historical foundations of Cuban-Algerian relations, tracing back to Cuba’s unwavering support during Algeria’s war for independence against French colonialism. “Cuba stood firmly with Algeria during its liberation struggle, not merely with words but through concrete material and diplomatic support,” he stated, recalling Cuba’s pivotal involvement in backing Algeria’s sovereignty during the Sand War. This solidarity, spearheaded by iconic figures like Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, Ahmed Ben Bella, and Houari Boumediene, laid the groundwork for a lasting bond rooted in anti-imperialist ideals and mutual respect.

A cornerstone of this bilateral relationship has been healthcare cooperation. Since 1963, Cuba has deployed thousands of doctors and medical professionals to Algeria, especially to underserved regions. “Today, nearly 900 Cuban medical personnel continue to provide essential healthcare services across Algeria, embodying our commitment to humanitarian solidarity,” Cabrera noted. This enduring collaboration was born from Algeria’s post-independence health crisis, when Cuba answered the call for urgent medical aid following the mass departure of local doctors.

The ambassador further highlighted the expansion of cooperation into scientific research and biotechnology, sectors where Cuba has excelled despite decades of economic embargoes. Cabrera pointed to Cuba’s self-reliance in developing vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic as a testament to its scientific advancement. “Our expertise in biotechnology, including successful vaccine production, has been shared with Algeria, reinforcing our partnership in public health and pharmaceutical research,” he added, emphasizing ongoing negotiations for expanded collaboration in these fields.

Beyond bilateral ties, Ambassador Cabrera underscored Cuba’s broader commitment to international solidarity, particularly in Africa. “Cuba’s support for Algeria is part of our global stance against colonialism and oppression. Our medical brigades have served in multiple African nations during health crises, including our intervention during the Ebola outbreak,” he explained, reaffirming Cuba’s historical involvement in the fight against apartheid and its military support for the liberation of Angola and Namibia.

The ambassador also addressed Cuba’s complex relationship with the United States, marked by enduring economic blockades aimed at isolating the Caribbean nation. “Despite relentless economic pressures, Cuba has preserved its sovereignty and revolutionary principles. Our resilience in the face of these challenges speaks to the strength of our people and leadership,” Cabrera affirmed, denouncing continued U.S. sanctions as a violation of international norms.

Cabrera concluded by reaffirming Cuba’s unwavering support for the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination in Western Sahara, aligning with Cuba’s consistent foreign policy advocating for the liberation of oppressed peoples worldwide. “Our commitment to justice, sovereignty, and mutual cooperation with Algeria remains as strong today as it was during our shared struggles for independence,” he declared.

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