Dili – Timor Leste President Xanana Gusmao expressed the gratitude of the nation s authorities and people Tuesday, for Cuba s medical and educational cooperation.

Gusmao, an historic leader in the struggle for the independence of Timor Leste, received Cuban Ambassador Ramon Hernandez at Das Cinzas Palace, who reported to the president on the results of the three years of cooperation.

The Cuban brigade, formed by public health technicians and doctors, has done a fine job there.

The Cuban brigade of physicians and medical personnel attended to one million clinical appointments, thousands of surgeries, innumerable deliveries and saved more than 8,000 human lives, as well as training local doctors – 805 Timor Leste youth are now studying medicine.

Cuban teachers are also assisting in the organization, preparation and supervision of the literacy campaign in Timor Leste

Gusmao concludes his presidential mandate on May 20, and will postulate for the coming elections for prime minister.

Earlier Hernandez was received by local Parliament President Francisco Guterres, to whom he gave details on the consequences of the US release of terrorist Luis Posada Carriles.