The advances Cuba is exhibiting in the field of science could motivate students from the United States to receive training in the Caribbean nation, according to Peter Agre, the Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry.
 
The American scientist praised the social orientation of the health services in Cuba, the achievements in biotechnology and the training of doctors for the world at the Latin American School of Medical Sciences -ELAM.
 
ELAM –located in the west of the Cuban capital– has in its history 18 graduations in which 30,636 students from 120 countries graduated.
 
Agre dedicated his latest research to alleviating the impact of malaria in tropical countries, mainly in Africa, and observed the way in which doctors trained in Cuba fight a disease with terrible consequences in adults and children. Hence, he considers that many of his students from the renowned John Hopkins University would be interested in studying in Cuba.
 
“Although the barriers of the economic, commercial and financial blockade of the United States are a problem, young Cuban scientists are great and that, together with the friendship and professional ties, motivate me to be here”, Agre expressed.
 
After receiving the appointment of the new Corresponding Member of the Cuban Academy of Sciences, he was optimistic about an improvement in diplomatic relations between Washington and Havana.
 
“From my point of view, the most important thing is the collaboration between young scientists; that the Americans go to Cuba and those from Cuba come to the United States”, said the malaria expert, who was also awarded the honorary plaque for the 280 anniversary of the University of Havana.
 
Referring to the areas of cooperation that could be most useful, he mentioned the study and knowledge that exists in our country on climate issues.
 
When a hurricane reaches the United States, this phenomenon has generally already passed through Cuba, these are conditions that affect both and experiences can be shared in this matter.
 
The prestigious scientist is in Cuba as part of a delegation from the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The Nobel Prize in Chemistry has visited the Caribbean nation on several occasions and contributes to the strengthening of ties between the scientific communities of both countries.