Mexico to Receive 2,700 Cuban Doctors Amid Controversy

Mexico announced it will receive 2,700 Cuban doctors to address a shortage of specialists, despite criticism from opponents. Cuba has already sent hundreds of doctors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Opponents argue that this supports Cuba at the expense of local professionals. The U.S. State Department has raised concerns about the program.

Mexico announced on Tuesday that it will receive 2,700 Cuban doctors in an effort to alleviate a shortage of medical specialists, despite criticism from opponents who argue this supports the communist-led Caribbean nation at the expense of local professionals.

Cuba has previously sent hundreds of doctors to Mexico, the first wave arriving during the COVID-19 pandemic, and they are currently employed by Mexico's public health service. Zoe Robledo, head of Mexico's Social Security Institute, stated during a press conference that the latest agreement adds to the 950 Cuban doctors already working in 23 states, mainly in internal medicine, pediatrics, and emergency medicine.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has defended the Cuban government, arguing that it is the victim of an unjust U.S. economic blockade. However, political opponents and representatives from Mexico's medical community claim the agreements with Cuba financially support the cash-strapped nation. While the government maintains that there are not enough specialists, opposition senator Julen Rementaria pointed out that 51,000 unemployed Mexican doctors could fill the roles currently being assigned to Cuban doctors. The U.S. State Department has also raised concerns about Cuba's recruitment and retention practices, warning of potential forced labor conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)