Castries, St. Lucia — Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has assured the nation that the government has responded to inquiries from the United States regarding the employment of Cuban medical personnel in St. Lucia, reaffirming that the island has nothing to hide. Speaking at a press briefing, Pierre addressed concerns surrounding a recent New York Times report, which suggested that St. Lucia has been placed on a “yellow list” and given 60 days to respond to U.S. concerns.
Pierre confirmed that the government received a diplomatic note from the U.S. seeking clarification on the presence of Cuban doctors on the island. However, he emphasized that this was not a matter exclusive to St. Lucia, as similar inquiries were made to all countries employing Cuban medical professionals.
“We answered the questions, and the answers were simple,” Pierre stated. “The Cuban doctors who work in St. Lucia do so as professionals. They are paid by the government of St. Lucia, and they receive no special or different treatment from our local doctors.”
The Prime Minister underscored the critical role that Cuban medical personnel play in the nation’s healthcare system, warning that their absence would cause significant strain.
“Our medical system would basically collapse if the Cuban doctors were not there,” he asserted, highlighting that Cuba has supported St. Lucia with medical personnel since 1979.
Pierre also disclosed that the government, through the Minister of External Affairs, has formally responded to the U.S. via diplomatic channels, maintaining that St. Lucia adheres to international law and values its right to form alliances as a sovereign state.
On the second issue raised, Pierre addressed the New York Times report that claimed St. Lucia was placed on a “yellow list” by the U.S. and given 60 days to respond to certain concerns. He clarified that the government has not received any official notification to that effect.
“We have made inquiries through our Washington office, and they have indicated that there is nothing official,” Pierre revealed. “At this point, all we have to go by is a newspaper article.”
The Prime Minister stressed that the matter should not be politicized and urged national unity in addressing any diplomatic challenges.
“This is not about any political party; this is about the government and people of St. Lucia. The U.S. is engaging with St. Lucia as a country, not as a political entity,” he said. “We must tread with caution and continue dialogue with the U.S., but at the same time, we reserve the right to establish friendships with the countries we choose.”
Pierre reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to open dialogue with Washington while safeguarding St. Lucia’s national interests. The Minister of External Affairs is expected to provide further details on the government’s formal response to the U.S. in the coming days.
