Today we celebrate CARICOM-Cuba Day as mandated by Heads of State and Government of the Member States of the Caribbean Community and Cuba on 8 December 2002. That decision was taken on the occasion of the thirtieth anniversary of the establishment in 1972 of diplomatic relations between the then four independent states of the Region and the Government of Cuba.

Relations between the Caribbean Community and the Republic of Cuba have strengthened over time. The Government and People of Cuba have contributed generously to the development of the Region's human resources as well as to the cultural, social and economic growth of our societies. Persons from the Caribbean region have been trained in Cuba in the areas of medicine, education, sports, culture and agriculture among other fields. Cuban doctors, nurses and other health care professionals have served and continue to serve the countries and people of the Caribbean Community with great skill and dedication.

The Governments and people of the Region appreciate the benefits that have accrued to us from the relationship between the Caribbean Community and the Republic of Cuba. We hope that these bonds of friendship and cooperation, which have been immensely strengthened by the signing of a CARICOM-Cuba Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement in July 2000, are also enhancing the lives of the Cuban people.

As the Caribbean Community continues to express and demonstrate solidarity with the People of Cuba, I extend fraternal greetings to our sister country, and convey the best wishes of the Caribbean Community for the prosperity, good health and happiness of the people of Cuba - our brothers and sisters in this our Caribbean family.

To the Government and People of Cuba!