CubaMinrex. Sitio del Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Cuba
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HeroeNacionaling
Ophthalmology Center in Uruguay Named after José Martí
Cuban and Uruguayan doctors have performed 10,000 cataract operations.
URUGUAY, July 27, 2009. — Today, a modern Ophthalmology Center on the outskirts of the capital was named after Jose Marti. Here, Cuban and Uruguayan doctors completed 10,000 cataract operations a few days ago.
The ceremony to celebrate that scientific and human achievement was chaired by President Tabare Vazquez. It coincided with the commemoration of July 26th, Cuba's Day of National Rebellion. The ceremony was also opportune to say goodbye to the Cuban Ambassador in Uruguay, Marielena Ruiz Capote, after four years of successful work in the South American nation.
The Minister of Public Health, Maria Julia Muñoz, stated that "this hospital is the result of Cuba's decision to globalize solidarity and a proof of its commitment to Marti’s principles. Therefore, it is fair that from now it bears the name of Cuba’s National Hero."
The director of the center, Yamandu Bermudez, highlighted that "cataract operation number 10,000 ―performed on a 90 year old patient― is a major breakthrough for this institution and Uruguay. This would have never been possible in the country and even less in the public health system.
Bermudez also stated that "we have restored the dignity of our people. We will continue on this road under the name of the architect of Cuban independence, and one time consul of Uruguay in New York".
More than 145,000 Uruguayans of scant resources have received free care at the hospital with Cuban help. It has been declared a center of national reference.
Ruiz Capote stressed that "with that work his fellow countrymen embody Marti and Fidel’s principle that Homeland is humanity.
Also present at the ceremony were the presidential candidate of the Frente Amplio, José Mujica; nearly the entire ministerial cabinet; leaders of political, social, and solidarity with Cuba organizations; and members of the diplomatic corps. (Cubaminrex-Granma- PL)