Havana – Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of East Timor, Mari Bim Amude Alkatiri, praised Cuba's development and breakthroughs in its health system and its successful cooperation program with other nations.

At the end of his visit to the Pando Ferrer Ophthalmology Institute, the distinguished guest told Prensa Latina that his country was far from having such institutions, but it was a pleasure that a friendly nation was a point of reference in the field.

He said he was very impressed by the professionalism of the staff, the high-technology of the equipment and, above all, the noble purpose of Operation Miracle, through which 170,000 patients from Latin America and the Caribbean have recovered their vision so far.

Regarding cooperation links with the Island, Amude Alkatiri highlighted the presence of 65 Cuban physicians in East Timor, which opens bright prospects in a priority sector within the revolutionary process in the Southeast Asian nation.

He said this visit is also aimed at exploring possibilities in other sectors as, despite the US blockade, Cuba has developed great capabilities as it responds to significant challenges.

The East Timor prime minister started his agenda by laying a wreath before the Jose Marti Monument at the Revolution Square.

He is accompanied by Health Minister Rui Maria de Araujo and other high-ranking officials and figures of the East Timor government.

This visit will contribute to strengthening political, cooperation, and solidarity ties between Cuba and East Timor, which have reached an excellent level since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2002.