Carlos Lage Davila
Carlos Lage Davila, a prominent Cuban politician and physician, served as Vice President, leaving a lasting impact on Cuba's economic policies.
Carlos Lage Davila
Political Figure
October 15, 1951
Libra
73
Havana, Cuba
Carlos Lage Dávila, born in Havana, Cuba, is a prominent Cuban politician and physician who has played a significant role in shaping the country’s economic and social policies. He completed his medical degree at the University of Havana in 1976, specializing in internal medicine and endocrinology. In 1975, he joined the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC) and held various positions within the party, including First Secretary of the PCC Municipal Committee in Havana.
Dávila served as Minister of Public Health from 1990 to 1993 and was appointed Vice President of the Council of Ministers in 1993, overseeing economic and social development. In 1995, he became the First Vice President of the Council of Ministers, serving under President Fidel Castro. During his tenure, he played a key role in implementing economic reforms and promoting foreign investment in Cuba.
One of Dávila’s most notable achievements was overseeing the development of Cuba’s biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, leading the country’s response to the economic crisis of the 1990s known as the “Special Period.” He implemented reforms to improve healthcare, education, and social services in Cuba and promoted scientific research and technological advancements.
Dávila is married to Mariela Castro EspÃn, daughter of former Cuban President Raúl Castro, and has two children, Carlos Lage Codorniu and Mariela Lage Codorniu. He is known for his passion for sports, particularly basketball and soccer, and enjoys reading, music, and spending time with his family.
Fluent in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, Dávila has authored several books and articles on healthcare, economics, and social development. Considered a moderate reformer within the Cuban government, he advocated for gradual economic liberalization. In 2009, Dávila stepped down from his government positions due to health reasons but continues to contribute to public discourse on economic and social issues in Cuba.