India and Cuba have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in science and technology, particularly in biotechnology and biomanufacturing, as Cuba Deputy Prime Minister Dr Eduardo Martínez Díaz called on the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr Jitendra Singh.
The meeting, held on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, explored avenues to deepen collaboration in medical research, vaccine development, and sustainable biomanufacturing.
During the discussions, Dr Jitendra Singh emphasised that collaborative research is indispensable for a science-driven society to have a global influence at scale. He noted that joining hands with the best in the world and pursuing complementary, targeted research will propel India’s scientific community to the next level of innovation, transformation, and skill development.
The Minister also stressed that the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is increasingly focusing on collaborative research to tackle socio-economic and environmental challenges with long-term benefits.
Both sides discussed strengthening existing agreements in health, medicine, and biotechnology, building upon previous MoUs on traditional medicine, homeopathy, and scientific collaboration. Given Cuba’s growing interest in Ayurveda and Indian naturopathy, both nations expressed optimism about expanding engagement in this sector.
Cuba extended an invitation to Dr Jitendra Singh to visit Havana and lead an Indian delegation to Bio-Habana 2026, a global biotechnology conference.
