Cuba is looking to deepen cooperation with India across healthcare, biotechnology, renewable energy and digital technologies despite mounting economic challenges that Havana blames on US sanctions, Cuban Ambassador to India Juan Carlos has said.
Speaking in an interview, the ambassador described India as one of Cuba’s oldest and most trusted partners, noting that the two countries are marking 66 years of diplomatic relations this year. He recalled that India was among the first Asian nations to recognise the Cuban Revolution in 1959 and said political ties continue to grow.
He pointed to last year’s meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, saying both leaders agreed to expand political, economic and scientific cooperation.
Healthcare remains one of the strongest pillars of the relationship, he said, highlighting more than two decades of collaboration in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. Cuba is currently discussing technology transfers with Indian companies for innovative treatments for cancer, diabetes and Hepatitis B, while also proposing joint medical cooperation in Africa to tackle infectious diseases.
The ambassador also identified digital governance, information technology, renewable energy and sports as sectors where bilateral cooperation could expand further.
Much of the conversation focused on Cuba’s economic difficulties. Juan Carlos argued that US sanctions and what he described as an “oil blockade” had sharply reduced fuel supplies, triggering prolonged electricity shortages and affecting healthcare, transport and food production.
According to the ambassador, Cuba currently produces only around 40 per cent of the electricity it requires, with many parts of the country experiencing blackouts lasting up to 20 hours a day. He said the shortages have disrupted hospital services and delayed thousands of medical procedures. These are claims made by the Cuban government.
Despite the challenges, he said Cuba was pursuing economic reforms aimed at attracting greater foreign investment, expanding the role of small and medium enterprises and opening additional sectors to international businesses.
Juan Carlos said Indian companies without significant exposure to the US market should find opportunities in Cuba, particularly in tourism, renewable energy and biotechnology. He also welcomed India’s support at the United Nations against the US embargo and called for stronger South-South cooperation.
Looking ahead to this year’s BRICS Summit in India, the ambassador confirmed that Cuba would send a delegation and said Havana hopes to contribute in areas including vaccines, healthcare and education, while further strengthening ties with New Delhi.
