He mentioned the existence of the Mariel Special Development Zone, where several biotechnology companies are established.

On Monday, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel met with the governor of the city of St. Petersburg, Alexandr Beglov. Upon his arrival at the Smolny Palace, the Cuban leader laid flowers at the statue of the founder of the first Socialist state Vladimir Ilyich Lenin.

RELATED:

Cuban Doctors Prevent Collapse of Grenada’s Health System: PM Mitchell

In his conversation with Beglov, Diaz-Canel referred to the situation Cuba is experiencing due to the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States for more than six decades. “Just as you did here in Leningrad, we will not surrender nor allow ourselves to be humiliated,” he said.

During a visit to the production plant of the pharmaceutical company Vertex, Beglov and Diaz-Canel discussed topics related to the future development of cooperation between the pharmaceutical industries of Russia and Cuba.

Diaz-Canel highlighted the existence of the Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM), a territory located in western Cuba where several biotechnology companies are established. This zone offers suitable conditions for the joint development and production of medications and cosmetic products.

Hello from Havana! @NNOCuba is staying in the Scientific Pole in Western Havana, the main scientific, production & commercialization hub of biotech & the Cuban pharma & medical industry. Because of the US blockade, Cuba has to produce 70% of the medicine it consumes domestically. pic.twitter.com/NNqDxEviUb

— Calla (@CallaWalsh) April 23, 2023

In the ZEDM, Cuban scientists have achieved biotechnological breakthroughs such as a vaccine against hepatitis and a unique drug for the treatment of diabetic foot, the Cuban leader recalled.

For his part, the governor of St. Petersburg emphasized that “the company Vertex is a remarkable example of successful import substitution and innovative development in the Russian pharmaceutical industry.”

“The work of companies like this one confirms the status of St. Petersburg as a leading center of the pharmaceutical industry in Russia,” Beglov pointed out.

This May, 1st, #Venezuela🇻🇪, #Colombia🇨🇴, #Brazil🇧🇷, #Cuba🇨🇺 and #ElSalvador🇸🇻 celebrates International Workers Day on the streets. Workers' unity and governmental support for the working class was evident. Pres. marched to gather with workers and social organizations. pic.twitter.com/7M8MrBONnC

— teleSUR English (@telesurenglish) May 1, 2025

teleSUR/ JF

Sources: MDC – St. Petersburg Press Service

IN THIS ARTICLE