Cuba offers Fiji help to tackle mother-to-child HIV transmission

Cuba has offered to help Fiji tackle its growing HIV crisis by sharing a World Health Organization-approved procedure aimed at preventing the transmission of HIV from mothers to their babies.

Speaking during a traditional welcome ceremony in Suva yesterday, Cuba’s Ambassador to Fiji, Nestor Enrique Olivera, said Cuba was already in discussions with Fiji on possible health cooperation.

Ambassador Olivera said Cuba had extensive experience in the health sector and was willing to assist Fiji through medical cooperation, including the possible involvement of Cuban specialists and technicians.

“There is an issue here in Fiji related to HIV transmission from mother to child. We have a procedure that is approved by the WHO, so we are looking to see how we can cooperate with Fiji in that matter,” he said.

Mr Olivera said Cuba was prepared to explore solutions that could help Fiji strengthen its response to HIV and improve support for affected mothers and children.

His comments come as Fiji continues to face growing concerns over increasing HIV cases, including mother-to-child transmission.

Mr Olivera also highlighted the long-standing relationship between Fiji and Cuba, particularly in the medical field.

He said more than 33 Fijians had graduated as doctors in Cuba through scholarship opportunities provided by the Cuban Government.

The ambassador added that Cuba remained committed to strengthening cooperation with Fiji, especially in areas that could improve public health and save lives.