Auckland, February 17 (RHC) – New Zealand has signed a cooperation arrangement with Cuba to support Cuban medical assistance in the Pacific islands.

The document was signed by Craig Hawke, Acting Chief Executive of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ambassador of Cuba Maria del Carmen Herrera Caseiro.  The two sides described the agreement as an important step in the sustained engagement of relations between the two countries.

The Cuban diplomat described the agreement as a milestone in the improving bilateral ties between the two countries. She mentioned the reciprocal visits of the two Foreign Ministers and the progress being made in bilateral cooperation.

Hawke, for his part, expressed satisfaction and referred to the importance of Pacific islands for New Zealand, acknowledging the Cuban medical collaboration in the region and fame it enjoys in the field of healthcare. He welcomed the joint cooperation in the area for the benefit of Pacific islands.