Cuban ambassador to Jamaica, His Excellency Yuri Ariel Gala Lopez, makes a point. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

There are some diplomatic assignments that carry a certain aura about them.

The United States of America, Venezuela and China are just three of the countries with which Jamaica and its people have strong relations. Another country that holds a significant place in the hearts of Jamaicans is Cuba and new Ambassador Yuri Ariel Gala Lopez is the latest head of mission to serve. His mission, keep the close ties taut.

Outlook spoke with the ambassador at the Cuban Embassy on Trafalgar Road, St Andrew, last week. He said he has visited Jamaica before, but only for two or three days, so this is his "real stay". As protocol dictated, he made various courtesy calls after presenting his credentials to Governor General Sir Patrick Allen. He is full of enthusiasm as he goes about his new job.

"For the Cuban ambassador in Jamaica, it is really a privilege to be here because Jamaica and Cuba have had historic relations," he said. He said the relationship was very dynamic right now as it incorporated a number of areas including health care and educational services.

Ambassador Gala Lopez is a career diplomat who has served in Canada and as Cuba's permanent representative to the United Nations. He has also been part of delegations to Europe and Latin America. But Jamaica is his first posting as an ambassador, something he is very excited about.

Respectful to foreigners

"Jamaicans are like Cubans in terms of their happiness, their friendliness and they are very respectful to foreigners. I am very, very happy to be in Jamaica as my first posting as an ambassador," he smiled broadly. "I have perceived and realised how much friendship Cubans can feel while they are here. It's like being home."

He noted that moving from post to post is difficult both on the professional and personal side (he's married with two sons). But seemingly an optimist, Ambassador Gala Lopez tends to look at the rewards of country-hopping.

"It is a rewarding experience to get to know other people and other realities. Furthermore, I get to convey a message of peace," he reasoned.

He spoke glowingly of Jamaica's continued support of Cuba on both regional and international issues. He highlighted the number of solidarity groups in Jamaica as well as the ready assistance meted out to Cubans especially in times of disaster (like last year's three hurricanes). He said he would like to strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation even further.

deepening ties

"Cuba is really interested in deepening the ties and we are going to new areas wherever possible," he said. One of those areas could be in Parliament as "Cuban members of Parliament want a more dynamic relationship with their Jamaican counterparts." He also hoped for more cultural and trade exchanges.

Among his first initiatives in his capacity as head of mission is the expansion of the Cuban eye-care programme. He said an eye-care facility would be opened in Kingston at St Joseph's Hospital. A post-operation treatment centre will also be established at the National Chest Hospital. The ambassador said a team of specialists from Cuba was here to help set up the facilities while the equipment was en route.

He also highlighted the number of countries that are currently benefiting from the work of Cuban professionals. He cited that over 350,000 Cubans had rendered cooperation services to over 150 countries since 1961. The eye-care centre and other initiatives he plans to engage in are part of his overall mission to promote his government's philosophy.

"We (Cubans) are a not rich in wealth, but we are rich in willingness. For us, a better world is possible and we think we have to make our contribution."

Despite getting off to a running start in his duties, the ambassador is making sure to take some time out to see what his second home for about another four years will be like. He has already been to numerous state and diplomatic events and has hosted celebrations with his Cuban countrymen. Whenever his tenure comes to an end, he hopes he would have kept the camaraderie going.

"Most important would be to keep the relations as friendly and as respectful as it is now or even better if possible. That would be my desire."

daviot.kelly@gleanerjm.com