Q COSTARICA — After warning that the possibility of a rescue is very limited, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged Costa Ricans in Cuba to leave the island as soon as possible.
This is due to the unprecedented energy crisis in Cuba.
The number of Costa Ricans currently on the island is unknown.
“Due to the worsening shortages of fuel, electricity, and basic goods such as food, water, and medicine in Cuba, all Costa Ricans remaining on the island are urged to leave while commercial flights are available. Likewise, the suspension of non-essential travel to Cuba is recommended,” an official statement indicated.
The Ministry noted that the possibilities of evacuating Costa Ricans, whether residents or tourists, in case of emergency are very limited, and that the necessary economic and material resources are currently unavailable.
If you require assistance, you can contact the Consulate General of Costa Rica in Havana by email at concr-cu@rree.go.cr or by phone at (0053) 7204-6937 / (0053) 7204-6938.
The unprecedented energy crisis in Cuba was exacerbated by the cessation of oil shipments from Venezuela following the overthrow of Nicolás Maduro on January 3rd in a US-led military operation.
Historically, the Costa Rican presence in Cuba has included students—particularly those on medical scholarships—and a small community of expatriates. There has also been historical cultural exchange, notably between the town of Nicoya and Cuba. In recent years, relations have focused on trade in medical products and animal food.