STATE TIMES NEWS
NEW DELHI: A high-level Cuban delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister Eduardo Martínez Díaz, met with Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, in New Delhi.
The discussions focused on bilateral collaboration in biotechnology, medical research, and sustainable biomanufacturing, marking the 65th anniversary of India-Cuba diplomatic relations.
During the meeting, Dr. Jitendra emphasized the significance of collaborative research in shaping a science-driven society. He highlighted India’s growing role in biotechnology innovation and the need for international cooperation to tackle global health and environmental challenges.
The discussions also covered India’s leadership in bioeconomy, with the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) playing a crucial role in G20’s Initiative on Bioeconomy (GIB).
Dr. Singh elaborated on India’s green growth and net-zero carbon economy vision, with policies such as Lifestyles for Sustainable Development (LiFE), the BioE3 Policy, and the National Biofuels Policy driving sustainable advancements. The BioE3 Policy aims to transform biomanufacturing, boosting the production of bio-based high-value products. India’s bioeconomy has expanded from $10 billion in 2014 to $151 billion in 2023, surpassing targets ahead of schedule.
Cuban Deputy Prime Minister Eduardo Martínez Díaz highlighted Cuba’s expertise in vaccine development and cancer treatment, expressing interest in deepening partnerships with India. Both sides explored ways to strengthen agreements in health, medicine, and biotechnology, particularly in Ayurveda and Indian naturopathy, areas of growing interest in Cuba.
DBT also highlighted its role in accelerating vaccine development and manufacturing, particularly through initiatives like “Mission COVID Suraksha” and BIRAC, which supports India’s biotech startup ecosystem.
Cuba extended an invitation to Dr. Jitendra Singh to lead an Indian delegation to Bio-Habana 2026, a global biotechnology conference in Havana.
Senior officials from both nations participated, including Cuban Ambassador Juan Carlos Marsán Aguilera, First Deputy Minister of Health Tania Margarita Cruz Hernández, and DBT Secretary Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, underscoring the commitment to strengthening India-Cuba scientific cooperation.
