Egypt and Cuba are deepening their collaboration in teh healthcare sector, with a particular emphasis on pharmaceutical manufacturing and the advancement of vaccine technology. This commitment was solidified during a meeting on Monday between Egypt’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, and Cuban Ambassador to Cairo, Alexander Pellicer.

The meeting, which took place at the Ministry of Health’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital, underscored the longstanding and robust relationship between the two nations. Minister Abdel Ghaffar emphasized the strong cultural and humanitarian connections as a vital base for forging strategic partnerships that contribute to mutual development objectives.

According to Ministry spokesperson Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, discussions revolved around bolstering joint ventures in pharmaceutical production, facilitating the exchange of expertise, and promoting the transfer of crucial technologies. These priorities directly support Egypt’s Vision 2030 and its overarching sustainable development goals.

Both countries explored opportunities for collaborative research and development of treatments for prevalent chronic diseases, including diabetic foot complications and kidney disease. This initiative aligns with Egypt’s strategy to increase domestic production of essential medicines and enhance the overall quality of healthcare available to its citizens.

current joint projects between Cuba and Egypt’s Holding Company for Biological Products and Vaccines (VACSERA) were also reviewed. these projects include the transfer of technology for producing vaccines against meningitis and pentavalent diseases, alongside broader cooperation within the biotechnology sector.

Ambassador Pellicer reiterated Cuba’s dedication to expanding cooperation with Egypt in health, scientific research, and the pharmaceutical industry. He also praised Egypt’s recent healthcare reforms and its proactive stance in fostering international partnerships.

Frequently Asked Questions about Egypt-Cuba Healthcare Cooperation

1. What is the primary focus of the healthcare cooperation between Egypt and Cuba?

   The primary focus is on strengthening collaboration in pharmaceutical manufacturing and advancing vaccine technology, with an emphasis on technology transfer and joint ventures.

2. How does this cooperation align with Egypt’s national development plans?

   This collaboration directly supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 and its broader sustainable development objectives, particularly in the healthcare sector.

3. What specific diseases are Egypt and Cuba collaborating on treatments for?

   The two countries are exploring joint research and development of treatments for chronic health conditions like diabetic foot complications and kidney disease.

4. What role does VACSERA play in this partnership?

   VACSERA, Egypt’s Holding Company for Biological Products and Vaccines, is actively involved in joint projects with Cuba, including the transfer of vaccine production technologies.

5. What vaccines are being considered for joint production?

   Current projects focus on transferring technology for the production of vaccines against meningitis and pentavalent diseases.

6. What did the Cuban Ambassador say about the partnership?

   Ambassador Pellicer reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Egypt in health, scientific research, and pharmaceuticals, and commended Egypt’s healthcare reforms.

7. Why are Egypt and Cuba strengthening their healthcare ties now?

   Both nations recognize the mutual benefits of sharing expertise and resources to improve healthcare access and quality, aligning with their respective development goals.