Bernard on Cuba’s Historical Support for Belize: “We Are Very Grateful for That”

Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard says Belize owes a debt of gratitude to Cuba for its historical support during the country’s path to independence, even as government navigates a decision on the future of the Cuban medical brigade.

Asked about comments made last week by former Prime Minister Said Musa, who noted that Cuba stood by Belize when few other nations did, Bernard agreed with that assessment. “Indeed, as the former Prime Minister, Said Musa, did say, we have had a great relationship with the government of Cuba and the people of Cuba. They have been on our side for the most part when Belize was going towards independence, and they supported Belize. So we are very grateful for that.”

However, Bernard said government must ultimately weigh that relationship against Belize’s present-day interests, acknowledging the decision ahead may not be politically popular.

“As a country, we also have to look at the interests of our Belizean people at the same time, and the interests of our country. Sometimes tough decisions have to be made. It may not be a popular one in terms of the political aspect of things, but when you look at the climate we’re living in right now, across this world, we have to take tough, measured, but realistic decisions that will benefit the Belizean people. At the end of the day, it is the Belizean people who we need to be able to protect.”

On the broader diplomatic pressure surrounding the issue, including claims from the United States regarding forced labor allegations tied to Cuban medical missions abroad, Bernard said Belize is trying to strike a careful balance. “While I understand the point of view of the United States government, and we appreciate the support we have also had from the United States government and people of the United States, we have to always look at this thing from a balancing point of view. The reality is that one country may have a designated position on another country, but we are caught in the middle of that big decision. We have to navigate those waters very carefully. Belize stands ready and prepared to look at the measures that will meet common ground, and I think we’ve been making great strides.”

Cabinet to Decide Future of Cuban Medical Brigade in September