Cuba’s Statement on Alan Gross case

Statement by the Director General of the United States at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Josefina Vidal Ferreiro .

We learnt with concern the press release issued on the morning of April 8, in Washington, that said that “Alan Gross, a USAID subcontractor jailed in Cuba for the last four years and four months, began a hunger strike last week “.

The Cuban government reiterates its willingness to seek, in conjunction with the U.S. government, a solution to the case of Mr. Gross, acceptable to both parties, that addresses the Cuban humanitarian concerns related to the case of the three Cubans belonging to the group of the Cuban Five that continue unjustly imprisoned in the U.S. for over 15 years . As known, Mr. Gross has received a decent and dignified treatment. Since his arrest, he is being held in a hospital, not because his health situation requires it, but because there we guarantee him specialized attention from highly qualified medical and health care personnel.

Alan Gross is in good physical condition and his health is normal and stable. His chronic conditions related to his age are under control, for which he receives medical treatment. He has been visited by his wife and lawyer, whom he keeps also systematic telephone and electronic communications, as well as other relatives and friends. He receives monthly consular access from American diplomats and visiting political and religious figures.

Mr. Gross was arrested, prosecuted and punished for violating Cuban laws, to implement a subversive program funded by the U.S. government, by establishing illegal and covert communications systems using non-commercial technology.

April 8, 2014