The foreign Minister spoke on it at greater length today - but conceded that they may need an exit strategy with the Cubans:
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs
"Now, in terms of the brigade, the medical brigade. That is a matter that we are reviewing in light of the circumstances in Cuba, the changing circumstances in Cuba. We are looking at options, in terms of what do we do? So we are discussing that with Cuba. You know, I want to, of course, place on record our deep gratitude for, to the Cuban government and people for the brigade. The brigade obviously has played a critical role in the development of our health system here in Belize, particularly in rural communities, where their doctors have served. So currently we have about 92 medical professionals serving in Belize, 45 of them, as I understand it, our doctors. So we're looking at that. And what we have done, cabinet has asked that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs work, along with the Ministry of Health and Wellness, to devise a plan that will present different options to cabinet for us to look at."
Reporter
"Sounds like an exit strategy, though."
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs
"Well, that may be one option. You know, so that may be one option. But the whole point is that given the circumstances, what is happening in Cuba. We have to be prepared. And so we have to have a plan. Whether it's a transition plan, we have to have a plan, to ensure that our health system is protected."
Reporter
"What consequences might be faced? Are we looking at the cancellation of visas for officials and their families or other such considerations?"
Francis Fonseca, Minister of Foreign Affairs
"No, no, I want to be very clear about that issue. The, you know, in all our engagements with the United States on Cuba. I have found them, including Secretary Rubio, at the last meeting in Saint Kitts, to be very pragmatic, very practical. There were no threats made to anybody. No, you know, no intimidation. They have a different view of Cuba. And what has been happening in Cuba, for the last 50 or so plus years. So, we have to respect that view. So, you know, no threats have been made. We are in dialog, respectful dialog, as I said, with the Cubans. And, you know, we're looking at options. We're looking at different options."
