A/75/PV.86 General Assembly

Before giving the floor for explanations of vote after the voting, may I remind delegations that explanations of vote are limited to 10 minutes and should be made by delegations from their seats.

Belarus is categorically against unilateral coercive measures against States Members of the United Nations. We consider the pressure put on States with such measures to be direct interference into the internal affairs of sovereign States. The application of unilateral, coercive measures is a blatant violation of international law, does irreparable harm to the whole system of international relations and increases the potential for conflict and animosity in intergovernmental relations. The economic, commercial and financial blockade by the United States, which has lasted for decades, restricts the development of an independent Cuba and makes it impossible for Cuba to realize its rich national potential. Unfortunately, we note that the main impact of such illegal measures is suffered by the people of Cuba. Restrictions in the areas of trade, monetary affairs, banking and tourism have had a negative impact on the level of well-being of the Cubans. The restrictions imposed, like all universal unilateral, coercive measures, not only violate human rights, but also strip the authors of such restrictions of any moral right to comment on the situation of human rights in the countries against which such restrictions are applied. Especially problematic is the extraterritorial nature of the restrictive measures against all States and businesses that happen to cooperate with the target of such restrictions. This type of policy goes beyond the framework of bilateral relations and in fact leads to the violation of the rights of other States, restricting their ability to have full-fledged cooperation with Havana. It is difficult to perceive this approach by the United States as anything other than economic terrorism on an international scale. Once again, we note that over the recent past there has been no significant progress in resolving the current situation. We hope that the new United States Administration will be in a position to review and adjust the country’s approach on this issue by resuming the initiated — and then stopped — process of normalization. We call for a full unconditional and irreversible end to the economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba by the United States.

First, I wish to acknowledge the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, who is present in the General Assembly Hall with us today. I am taking the floor to explain Jamaica’s vote on resolution 75/289, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. Let me at the outset commend the Government of the Republic of Cuba for its unwavering quest and resilience, despite the challenges to maintaining the visibility on this issue. Two years ago, in a national statement on this very matter (see A/73/PV.29), Jamaica pointed out that, in an environment in which the international community has agreed to focus its attention on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, it is ill advised that the embargo should be maintained even as we proclaim the need to leave no one behind. We also stated that the embargo constituted the principal obstacle to the development of the Cuban economy, hindering Cuba’s national plan for economic and social development. This embargo therefore represents a transgression of the right to peace, development and security of a sovereign State. Today, Jamaica maintains that position. The increased number of coercive measures applied by the United States Government against the people and the Government of Cuba at a time when the world is grappling with a health pandemic is simply inhumane. These restrictions have exacerbated the manifold challenges caused by the pandemic. For example, it has hampered humanitarian aid to Cuba, which has resulted in a shortage of essential products for its population’s consumption. The imposition of sanctions on third- country entities for alleged violations of the blockade also remains a recurring practice for which Jamaica is gravely concerned. We have had a long and fruitful relationship with Cuba, which is one of our closest neighbours, with approximately 90 miles separating us. Over the years, despite the challenges wrought by the embargo, our two countries have witnessed the development of a vibrant and dynamic cooperation framework. Our Cuban brothers and sisters deserve the same opportunities that we all enjoy, which is to pursue and realize their social and economic development as a sovereign nation and member of the General Assembly. The overwhelming view of the international community was yet again made manifest earlier today by the fact that 184 States Members of the United Nations voted in favour of the resolution to lift the over 59-year-old economic blockade (see A/75/PV.85). The collective expression of the international community is that this illegitimate act should end. Over the years, Jamaica’s national position has been reflected in our consistent support for General Assembly resolutions that call for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba. Our vote in favour today is simply a reaffirmation of our position, namely, that the embargo must be completely and immediately removed, in conformity with our obligations under the United Nations Charter and international law, including those with respect to sovereign equality, non-intervention and the non-interference in the internal affairs of States. In this respect, the imposition of unilateral extraterritorial laws is contrary to the letter and the spirit of the United Nations Charter and undermines the principles of multilateralism, sovereignty and free trade.

First of all, I would like to welcome and thank Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, for his presence at the General Assembly today. Argentina fully associates itself with the statement made by the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Guinea on behalf of the Group of 77 and China (see A/75/PV.85), and wishes to add the following elements in its national capacity. We congratulate the General Assembly for its resounding adoption of resolution 75/289, and we congratulate the Government of Cuba and the Cuban mission for the excellent work they have done. Argentina voted in favour of the resolution, demonstrating once again its firm opposition to the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed against Cuba and to the use of unilateral measures of coercion, the extraterritorial application of national commercial laws and the adoption of discriminatory commercial practices. Argentina rejects the blockade policy against Cuba carried out by the Government of the United States of America — a practice that has lasted for more than half a century, and which, in addition to being morally unjustifiable, violates the Charter of the United Nations, the norms of international law and the spirit of multilateralism. Argentina renews its absolute commitment to the principles of the sovereign equality of States, non-intervention in their internal affairs and freedom of international trade and navigation. The blockade is immoral, unjust and illegal. It is very clear to the international community that this blockade is the main obstacle to the economic and social development of the Cuban people. The figures presented by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba (see A/75/PV.85) demonstrate the wide-ranging ramifications of that policy in every aspect of the lives of the Cuban people. We cannot avoid seeing this issue through the lens of the complex international situation we are experiencing. With the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the blockade imposed on Cuba has become more inhumane and unjustifiable than ever. The Cuban public health system is suffering the consequences of the blockade, which is affecting the health and lives of Cubans. Amid the global emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbating the economic crisis must be avoided, and the most vulnerable people must be protected. The blockade — which has been repeatedly condemned by resolutions of the Organization adopted with nearly unanimous support — has serious humanitarian and economic consequences that cause irreparable harm to the well-being of the people of Cuba. The blockade effectively impedes the enjoyment of fundamental rights, such as the rights to health, education and food, not to mention tourism, transportation, industry and culture, among many others. In addition, it harms every sector of the country’s economy by preventing the country’s access to credit on favourable terms, the transfer of state-of-the-art technologies, the mobilization of external capital, the attraction of foreign direct investment, the protection of the environment and Cuba’s full integration into the world economy. Yet, despite the restrictions imposed by the blockade, Cuba manages to play a prominent leadership role in various areas of international cooperation and solidarity. Argentina affirms its strong solidarity with, and support for, Cuba, its commitment to the principle of the sovereign equality of all States and its conviction that unconditional respect for all differences, whether economic, political or of any other kind, must prevail. The blockade against Cuba must cease. It is the longest unilateral sanctions regime ever imposed on any country. Since 1992, the General Assembly has voted every year by an overwhelming majority in favour of upholding international law, the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the right of the Cuban people to choose their own destiny. We hope that we will not have to adopt a resolution like resolution 75/289 in future and that the unjust blockade against Cuba will end once and for all.

Saint Kitts and Nevis would like to add its voice to this extremely important debate on agenda item 42, on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba, which addresses the very core of international law, sovereignty, non-intervention and the strengthened role of the United Nations in international affairs. Saint Kitts and Nevis voted in favour of resolution 75/289, and my delegation therefore associates itself with the statements made earlier by the representative of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the representative of Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of Haiti, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (see A/75/PV.85). Saint Kitts and Nevis expresses disappointment with measures that sought to intensify the economic aggression against Cuba and reiterates its unequivocal opposition to the continuance of the unjust embargo, which continues to cause widespread economic hardship for the people of Cuba, especially during the coronavirus disease pandemic. Cuba is a very close ally of Saint Kitts and Nevis and has aided in the economic and social development of our small twin-island federation, especially in the areas of agriculture, education and health care. That is testimony to the fact that Cuba will be able to do more internationally if the embargo is lifted. The embargo constitutes a key obstacle to Cuba’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. We consider the financial and economic embargo as an extreme burden on our brothers and sisters in Cuba. The negative impact on the economy of that small island developing State is quite profound and unfair to the people of Cuba. In trying to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, this is a critical time for the world, given the events of 2020, and no country should be left behind. It is a time for international cooperation and pooling resources to assist one another in this great challenge. That is why Saint Kitts and Nevis once again calls on the United States to end the embargo against Cuba. The fact that the majority of the membership traditionally votes in favour of this annual resolution signifies the overriding sentiment that the embargo is wrong at all levels. We implore all Member States to respect the sanctity of the General Assembly and the decisions that it makes. Failure to do so undermines the functioning of the United Nations system. While Saint Kitts and Nevis continues to enjoy friendly relations with the United States and with Cuba, it is my delegation’s hope that the two countries — Cuba and the United States — can improve their relationships and embark upon a process of cooperation. There is much that we can learn from one another, but the embargo remains an impediment to that process. That is why Saint Kitts and Nevis voted in favour of resolution 75/289 today, and we will continue to vote in favour of the annual resolution as long as those measures are imposed. Every year, we reiterate our call on both countries to find common ground so that the entire international community can move on from the impasse. Over the past four years, nothing has been done. That must change. We call on the United States to end once and for all the unjust and illegal blockade against Cuba.

Gabon aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Eritrea, on behalf of the Group of African States, the representative Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of the Niger, on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (see A/75/PV.85). Gabon reaffirms its commitment to the values and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, namely, the pacific settlement of disputes, cooperation among States and the principle of non-interference in their internal affairs. My country remains concerned about the continued economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed on Cuba and its impact on the people of Cuba, including Cubans living outside Cuba, in the areas of food security and socioeconomic development. The embargo represents the main obstacle to the socioeconomic development of Cuba with regard to implementing its national development plan and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Gabon once again firmly calls for lifting the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States of America. That would enable Cuba to participate in, and fully benefit from, international trade. Moreover, the analysis of the status quo of the past 28 years compels the international community to pursue its efforts to normalize relations between both countries, especially in an international context gravely affected by the coronavirus disease pandemic, with its devastating economic, financial, social and political consequences. For all those reasons, Gabon voted in favour of resolution 75/289.

First of all, I have the pleasure to welcome to New York His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. My delegation aligns itself with the statements made by the representative of Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.85). I take the floor to speak on behalf of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea in explanation of our vote in favour of resolution 75/289, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. Over the years, we have systematically voted in favour of this annual resolution, which has just been submitted for the twenty-ninth consecutive time to the General Assembly. Each time, the majority of the States Members of the United Nations — if not nearly all of them — have voted in favour of the resolution. Today we saw the result — 184 votes in favour, with only two against and three abstentions. The overwhelming support received by the resolution every year since it was first submitted to the General Assembly is a clear demonstration of the importance and necessity of lifting the blockade, which continues to cause considerable humanitarian, economic, commercial and financial harm to the Cuban people. During the previous implementation of the Millennium Development Goals and the ongoing implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Cuba continues to be subjected to an economic, commercial and financial blockade, which has rendered it totally unable to benefit from those development programmes. In 2014 and 2015, there was a glimmer of hope following decisions taken by the United States with a view to normalizing relations with Cuba and eventually lifting the blockade. That glimmer of hope was extinguished in 2020, coinciding with the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which served only to exacerbate the extremely harmful effects of the embargo. Indeed, the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba has had an adverse impact and has led to difficulties of all kinds in the daily life of the Government and the people of Cuba. Furthermore, as COVID-19 wreaks havoc throughout the world, international cooperation and solidarity are required to counter it. Given the current conditions, the embargo is a colossal burden for Cuba. To address that huge challenge, the country has had to earmark substantial resources to ensure the urgent provision of the necessary equipment and material for its health system. In spite of that, in line with its commitment to multilateralism and as a demonstration of its support, Cuba has deployed 57 medical brigades to assist 40 countries in their fight against the pandemic. The Republic of Equatorial Guinea voted in favour of resolution 75/289 as a call for another glimmer of hope. This time, it should not merely be a flicker but a light that shines brightly to make possible what the entire world, along with the Government and the people of Cuba, hope for — that is, the complete and definitive removal of the embargo against the country. May the bridges being rebuilt in other latitudes also be rebuilt for Cuba by the lifting of the embargo so that, along with other countries, Cuba can freely enjoy trade exchanges and bilateral and multilateral economic and financial cooperation, thereby bringing an end to the great challenges and limitations that the Cuban people continue to face.

Costa Rica welcomes His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, to today’s meeting. We listened carefully to his statement earlier today. We also thank the Secretary-General for his report on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba (A/75/81 and A/75/81Add.1). Costa Rica voted in favour of resolution 75/289, as it calls for an end to the blockade imposed against the Cuban people. We believe that unilateral measures contravene the spirit of the multilateral system and the resolutions adopted by the General Assembly. Furthermore — I say it loud and clear — that is a reprehensible embargo, which the Cuban people do not deserve. Its impact violates the human rights of millions of people. Costa Rica reiterates that the economic, commercial and financial embargo is a breach of international law and undermines the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. We therefore insist on the importance of respecting the many resolutions adopted by the Assembly on the issue. There is no reason to hesitate in putting an end to the embargo. It would be better for our Caribbean region if it ended and would lead to infinitely better and more constructive relations between the two Governments. In line with its position, Costa Rica reiterates its support for the Cuban people; its commitment to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations as key to maintaining international peace and security; and its commitment to effective multilateralism and international cooperation and solidarity. In the third decade of the twenty-first century, there is no reason for the existence of that anachronistic blockade.

I take this opportunity to speak in explanation of Grenada’s vote on resolution 75/289, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, which was adopted earlier today by the General Assembly. Grenada aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Haiti, on behalf of on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the representative of Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.85). At the outset, let me recognize with appreciation the presence here today of the Honourable Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla. Let me begin by stating categorically that Grenada believes that, at all times, the United Nations must do the right thing according to the letter and spirit of the Charter of the United Nations. In voting today in favour of resolution 75/289, Grenada believes that same sentiment is no different and must prevail. Let us be clear — Grenada voted with the overwhelming majority of the General Assembly in favour of the resolution, which calls for the removal of the embargo against the Government and the people of Cuba, because we strongly view it as counterproductive in its application and in contravention of the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of States. The unfettered adverse effects of the embargo are a consistent impediment to the goal of human development, as it undermines the fundamental principles of humanity. With near unanimity, States have joined the clarion call and demand an end to the economic, commercial and financial blockade of Cuba. We can no longer remain deaf to those thunderous calls. The significance of the embargo on the Cuban economy continues to be of great concern to Grenada. The inability of Cuba to acquire necessary medical supplies and the latest medicines in the fight of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) — because of the embargo — in addition to the humanitarian impact on the people of Cuba, especially with regard to socioeconomic conditions, health care and finance, are all saddening. The negative effects on the Cuban economy and its growth are obvious and tangible. It is remarkable that even as we meet at a time when the world is faced with an unprecedented crisis, Cuba has reminded us of the critical importance of being the genuine vanguard of the people, while building and maintaining close links through humanitarianism. The notable humanitarianism that Cuba displayed to the world during the onslaught of the COVID-19 pandemic gave hope and provided much needed life-saving medical support to many. Amid serious economic and social challenges, Cuba has always been willing to extend a hand of friendship and solidarity to developing — and even developed — countries around the world. Although limited in its possibilities, the Herculean spirit of cooperation and camaraderie demonstrated by Cuba is essential to the genuine peace and stability we all so desire. We once again profoundly thank our sister island nation of Cuba for the solid stand it has taken in that regard. That solidarity also demonstrates, on the one hand, the truly international character of the indomitable Cuban spirit and, on the other hand, the need — more urgent than ever — for Cuba to be recognized for the potential and the selfless and invaluable contributions of its people and to be readmitted unhindered to the economic, commercial and financial community of nations. Cuba has been a beacon for us in Grenada. In April 2021, Grenada and Cuba celebrated 42 years of friendship. History records that there is an unbreakable link between Cuba and Grenada. History records that the people of Grenada have benefited tremendously over the years and continue to benefit from a myriad of programmes in the areas of, inter alia, health and education. The Maurice Bishop International Airport and the General Hospital stand as symbols of Cuba’s contribution to Grenada’s socioeconomic development. Grenada reiterates the position of the Caribbean Community, most recently reaffirmed in the Declaration of the Seventh Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of CARICOM and Cuba held in December 2020, during which our Ministers rejected the imposition of unilateral coercive measures and called for an immediate and unconditional end to the economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba and the termination of the increased United States persecution of Cuban financial transactions. The Ministers reiterated CARICOM’s firm rejection of the Helms-Burton Act, which grossly violates international law and undermines the sovereignty and interests of third parties. In conclusion, we can no longer sit on our hands. Grenada believes that the time has come when we must move to elevate solutions that would create peaceful coexistence: one people and one world. The time has come, in our view, for continued mobilization and the demand for international support and solidarity. We remain hopeful that the adage nothing is set in stone runs true to form. Grenada continues to believe that there is still hope — with the support of multilateralism in the community of nations — to return to good-faith dialogue and the full normalization of relations between the two Governments, in the spirit of true and sincere reconciliation, and that the unilateral imposition of the blockade will be a vestige of the past. The resolution of this entrenched dispute will generate the momentum needed for resolving similar conflicts in other regions. Above all, when the rubber meets the road, only in unity can we earnestly fight to overcome the seemingly monumental difficulties in the world.

At the outset, allow me to acknowledge the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Foreign Minister of Cuba. Saint Lucia aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representative of Haiti on behalf of the Caribbean Community, the representative of Guinea on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.85). I wish to make the following remarks in my national capacity in explanation of vote after the voting. My delegation joins with those who have spoken before in support of the need to bring an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba. Saint Lucia reaffirms the importance we attach to the strict observance of the principles of international law and the freedom of trade and navigation. We remain opposed to the extraterritorial application of national legislation, which seeks to impose artificial barriers to trade and cooperation and is contrary to the principle of the sovereign equality of States. The report of the Secretary-General (A/75/81 and A/75/81/Add.1) is illustrative of the detrimental impact the embargo has had on efforts to undertake socioeconomic advancement in Cuba. Year after year, the General Assembly has repeatedly rejected the imposition of laws and regulations with extraterritorial impact and all other forms of cohesive economic measures that hurt the progress and prosperity of people the world over. The General Assembly has also called upon all States, in conformity with their obligations under the Charter of the United Nations and international law, to refrain from promulgating and applying, as well as to repeal and invalidate, laws and measures that have extraterritorial effects that affect the sovereignty of other States. The continued existence of the embargo, in contravention of world opinion as expressed by the Assembly undermines multilateralism and the credibility of the United Nations itself. The embargo and its devastating effects on a small island developing State is particularly incongruous in a year when the international community is working to chart an effective recovery from the global pandemic and accelerate progress towards the attainment of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Saint Lucia looks forward to the termination of the embargo and the day it will become possible to remove the item from the United Nations agenda. But until that day arrives, we will continue to support the Government and the people of Cuba, as we today support resolution 75/289, submitted by the Cuban delegation.

I offer a warm greeting to His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba. Kenya aligns itself with the statements made by the representative of Eritrea on behalf of the Group of African States, the representative of Guinea on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of Azerbaijan on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.85). Kenya regrets the fact that we are gathered yet another time for what has become an annual tradition of adopting a resolution on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. We strongly urge the United States to heed the voice of the United Nations and lift the embargo. That unjustifiable embargo undermines the development of Cuba and its people. Yet, despite its harsh impact on them, the Cuban people continue to show exceptional qualities as champions of multilateralism and solidarity. Kenya is grateful to the Republic of Cuba for the continued medical cooperation between our two nations. The embargo against Cuba is part of a broader sanctions phenomenon that punishes civilians in an indiscriminate fashion, increases the fragility of targeted countries to human-made and natural shocks and impedes their economic progress. The United Nations is bound by international law and an abiding aspiration to a multilateralism that respects every Member State as equal. Generalized sanctions and embargoes run counter to our collective objectives of inclusive and fair peace and development. They are an affront to sovereignty and self-determination and should be regarded as a tool from an unfortunate bygone era. Kenya expresses its strong support for Cuba and the Cuban people, and we voted in favour of resolution 75/289. The result of the voting demonstrates overwhelming support for, and solidarity with, Cuba. We call for the immediate lifting of the embargo and will continue to do so because we are convinced that that upholds our values as a country and as a Member of the United Nations.

My delegation warmly welcomes the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, at this important meeting today and expresses its positions to the Secretary-General on his comprehensive report (A/75/81 and A/75/81/Add.1) under agenda item 42. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Guinea, Azerbaijan and Singapore on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, respectively (see A/75/PV.85). We are of the view that the application of unilateral measures with extraterritorial implications not only contravenes the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, in particular the sovereign equality, independence and territorial integrity of States and non-interference in their internal affairs, but also hampers the national development of other countries. My delegation therefore reiterates its call for the lifting of the embargo against Cuba. We are convinced that ending the embargo will be of mutual benefit to the two countries, as well as the region and the world at large. Doing so will create an environment conducive to the enhancement of dialogue and cooperation between the two countries, which will contribute to improving the well-being of the Cuban people, who have endured hardship due to the prolonged embargo, and to enabling Cuba to pursue its sustainable development and engage in trade and economic cooperation with nations around the world, while addressing the impact of the coronavirus disease pandemic, For that reason, my delegation continues to lend its firm support to, and voted in favour of, resolution 75/289, on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba.

Indonesia aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Singapore, the Republic of Guinea, Azerbaijan and the Niger on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the Group of 77 and China, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, respectively (see A/75/PV.85). Allow me to warmly welcome His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, who is attending our meeting today. I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report (A/75/81 and A/75/81/Add.1) on the item under discussion today. Indonesia joins countries in calling for to end of the long-standing economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba and remains concerned over the lasting effects of the blockade on Cuba’s population. We reaffirm our principled position to support and take action on this resolution for the immediate ending of the embargo by the United States against Cuba. There are three reasons behind our support for the adoption of resolution 75/289. First, Indonesia continues to strongly oppose unilateral embargoes and extraterritorial coercive measures against the sovereignty of other States, the legitimate interests of entities and persons under their jurisdiction and the freedom of international trade and navigation, as governed by international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Secondly, Indonesia also believes that such action violates the principles of the sovereign equality of States, non-intervention and non-interference in their internal affairs, which are enshrined in many international legal instruments, including the Charter of the United Nations, as well as the norms and principles governing peaceful relations among States. Thirdly, Indonesia considers that such an embargo undermines the spirit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including the pandemic recovery effort. It is also concerning to learn that the embargo has prevented the timely arrival of humanitarian aid and access to necessary medical supplies and essential goods, which is detrimental to Cuba’s overall response to save lives and weather the health crisis brought about by the coronavirus disease pandemic. The embargo multiplies the pressure faced by the people, dimming their hope of achieving sustainable and resilient recovery from the pandemic and leaving them further behind in this decade of action. Indonesia underlines the importance of enhanced and constructive dialogue with a view to ending the embargo imposed against Cuba and towards the normalization of relations. We encourage continued efforts towards the normalization of relations through open and constructive dialogue. It is our deep and lasting hope that this sincere constructive message will be received positively.

I have the honour to address the General Assembly on agenda item 42, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by United States of America against Cuba”. I wish to acknowledge the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. At the outset, Belize aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Haiti, on behalf of the Caribbean Community, of the Republic of Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and of the Republic of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (see A/75/PV.85). For the past 30 years, the General Assembly has adopted resolution after resolution condemning the economic, commercial and financial embargo unilaterally imposed by the United States of America against Cuba  — an embargo that goes against the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law and which continues to create obstacles to the sustainable development of Cuba. To what end? It has created undue hardships for the people of Cuba, but it has also strengthened their resolve. For the past 30 years, the international community has grappled with the challenges posed by climate change. We also now face the global threat of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which has further hindered our socioeconomic development. Neither of those were caused, or exacerbated, by the people of Cuba. However, like all small island developing States, Cuba is most vulnerable to such threats and experiences their worst impacts. We all know that, in order to tackle and eventually overcome the challenges of climate change and remove the scourge of COVID-19, all States must work together on the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The people of Cuba have done more than their fair share by training thousands of medical personnel from developing countries, including my own country, Belize. Despite the additional adversity occasioned by the pandemic, they continue to deploy medical personnel to many developing countries. In March 2020, as COVID-19 was taking hold around the world, 60 members of the Henry Reeve International Contingent of Cuban health professionals, who specialize in providing assistance in times of disasters and pandemics, were deployed to Belize to support my country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cuba has now developed its own home-grown COVID-19 vaccines, which it will soon share with the international community. The question is: how much more would it be able to do if the illegal embargo were to be lifted? Like all small island developing States, Cuba is most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. Its scientists contribute to the understanding of the issue, and they are lead authors of the assessment reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. It willingly shares its expertise with developing countries and assist them in undertaking vulnerability assessments and in implementing their adaption measures, required to address the adverse effects of climate change, including sea-level rise and coastal erosion. Again, how much more could Cuba contribute to addressing climate change if the illegal embargo were lifted? We recognize that all members of this organ have a role and a responsibility to preserve this planet and to promote the well-being of all its citizens and those of the next generation. The measures to accomplish that are enshrined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the General Assembly. The people of Cuba have an obligation to meet the SDGs, and want to do so. To enable them to do that, Belize supported the lifting of the illegal economic, commercial and financial embargo of the United States of America against Cuba.

Let me express our appreciation to the Secretary-General for submitting the report (A/75/81 and A/75/81/Add.1) on this important agenda item on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. We would also like to acknowledge and welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla. My delegation aligns itself with a statements made by the representatives of Azerbaijan, Guinea and Eritrea on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Group of 77 and China and the Group of African States, respectively (see A/75/PV.85). Under resolution 68/200, the General Assembly agreed to work towards eliminating coercive unilateral measures. That pivotal resolution, also on unilateral coercive measures, constitutes a flagrant violation of the principles of international law as set forth in the Charter of the United Nations, as well as the basic principles of the multilateral system. Unilateral measures are not only an affront to the normality framework of our international system; they also impede the development process of developing countries and have a general negative impact on international economic cooperation. The negative ramifications of such measures for the enjoyment of human rights is also encompassed in Human Rights Council resolution 27/21. In that regard, my delegation would like to reiterate its firm position in support of, and solidarity with, the people and the Government of Cuba. Notwithstanding the prerogatives of the people and the Government of Cuba, the unilateral economic and financial embargo has affected the lives of the Cuban people and constrained Government efforts to achieve development. We encourage open and constructive dialogue between the United States and Cuba to address this long-standing problem. We hope to see the continuation of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States. We are hopeful that the United States Government will take a step towards smoothing that relationship by taking the measures that it showed us were possible in 2015 when it opened its Mission in Cuba and exchanged high-level visits. Finally, in the interests of preserving multilateralism, we call on countries well placed to impose coercive measures to be aware that with great power comes great responsibility and to employ their unique privilege in efforts that do not exacerbate the already unlevel playing field in the global arena.

At the outset, I would like to acknowledge the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. Cambodia voted in favour of resolution 75/289, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by United States of America against Cuba”, which was considered and adopted today under agenda item 42 (see A/75/PV.85). Cambodia has consistently supported the resolution, as it did previously, and has stood in solidarity with the Cuban Government and its people. The trade and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America on Cuba has been adversely affecting living conditions in the lives of the Cuban people, preventing them from fully enjoying their fundamental rights and undermining the Cuban Government’s efforts to implement the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Such extraterritorial sanctions have also impeded the capacity of the Cuban Government to effectively respond to the coronavirus disease pandemic. The Cuban people have suffered immensely due to the unimaginable consequences of the unilateral coercive economic measures imposed by the United States. Cambodia joined the overwhelming majority of Member States in calling on the United State of America to urgently end its embargo against Cuba and to stop such unfair and unjust practices, which violate international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Finally, my delegation would like to encourage the two nations to enter into a peaceful and constructive dialogue towards the normalization of their relations, as the Cuban people deserve to enjoy peace, stability and prosperity without external pressure.

Let me join others in acknowledging the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. Zimbabwe associates itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Eritrea, on behalf of the Group of African States, of Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (A/75/PV.85). My delegation voted in favour of resolution 75/289 in support of the call to lift the embargo on Cuba. From our own experience with multilateral measures, the Zimbabwean Government fully understands the degree of suffering caused by those illegal measures, particularly to the vulnerable. We believe that the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba has a damaging impact on the economic situation of the country and negatively affects the living standards of the Cuban people, particularly during this period when we are all grappling with the negative impacts of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The embargo hampers not only Cuba’s recovery efforts but also the global fight against the pandemic. External trade and foreign investment play a crucial role in setting Cuba on a path towards recovery and sustainable growth. Zimbabwe therefore believes that lifting the unilateral measures will facilitate the opening up of the Cuban economy for the benefit of the Cuban people. The medical assistance rendered by Cuba to many countries, in both the global North and the global South, is further proof of the constructive role that Cuba continues to play in the global fight against COVID-19 and in advancing the global development agenda. It is therefore our considered view that the United States embargo impedes the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and should be lifted unconditionally in order to allow the Cuban people to realize their national aspirations.

Thank you, Mr. President, for giving me this opportunity to deliver an explanation of vote after the voting. At the outset, I join other delegations in welcoming His Excellency Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, to today’s meeting. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by the Permanent Representative of Eritrea, on behalf of the Group of African States; the Permanent Representative of Azerbaijan, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries; and the Permanent Representative of Guinea, on behalf of the Group of 77 (G-77) (see A/75/PV.85), on the agenda item entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. My delegation thanks the Secretary-General for his report on the subject (A/75/81). Uganda maintains cordial bilateral relations and close collaboration with the Government and the people of Cuba, in accordance with the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. Based on our historical ties of solidarity with Cuba, our membership in the Non-Aligned Movement and the G-77, our fundamental belief in the principles of the Charter, and our recognition of the universally accepted norms of international law, Uganda has consistently sided with Cuba on the question of ending that economic, social and political injustice against its people. It should concern the international community that after decades of its implementation, the embargo against Cuba has had no remarkable achievement except to have caused great economic hardships to the Cuban people during the period it has remained in force. Our knowledge of Cuba, on the other hand, is of a sisterly nation that reaches out to others in their time of need, especially in the area of health and medical services cooperation, a critical area during this period of the global coronavirus pandemic. Uganda therefore fully supports the lifting of the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba in line with the request made by a clear majority of the States Members of the United Nations. Uganda therefore voted in favour of resolution 75/289.

I thank you, Mr. President, for this opportunity to explain our vote after the voting. At the outset, I would like to extend warmest greetings to His Excellency Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, and wish to assure him of Guyana’s solidarity with him and the Government and the people of Cuba. Guyana aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Guinea, Azerbaijan, the Niger and Haiti, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Caribbean Community, respectively (see A/75/PV.85). It is disquieting that the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba is still being perpetuated almost 60 years after it was first imposed. The effects of the embargo are especially acute now that the friendly people of Cuba are forced, like the rest of us, to battle the multidimensional impacts of the coronavirus disease pandemic, and this while attempting to advance the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals. Guyana maintains its principled position that the embargo is contrary to the spirit of the Charter, which urges the peaceful settlement of disputes, and we call for its immediate lifting and for the normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States of America. We recall with optimism the promising signs of camaraderie that we had witnessed a few years ago and urge both parties to explore ways of building on those initial steps. Guyana commends the Cuban Government for its continual demonstrations of fraternity with developing countries such as Guyana. In spite of the challenges that Cuba is confronting, including those occasioned by the blockade, the Cuban Government continues to extend its hand in assistance to other countries. For its part, Guyana remains grateful for Cuba’s tangible support and friendship. Further, we are encouraged by their indomitable spirit even in the face of their challenges and reiterate to them our unwavering solidarity and support. Guyana’s sincere hope is that the embargo will be completely lifted in the short term so that the Cuban people can be allowed the opportunity to realize their full potential. For those reasons, Guyana voted in support of resolution 75/289.

The United Kingdom has a long history of voting in favour of this resolution. We consider the United States of America’s economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba to be harmful and counterproductive. The embargo damages the living standards of the Cuban people. And while the embargo is blamed for many ills in Cuba, it is not the cause of all of them. The United Kingdom considers unilateral, secondary sanctions such as the activation of Titles III and IV of the Helms-Burton Act to be contrary to international law. Titles III and IV prevent and restrict foreign companies, including British companies, from conducting legitimate and lawful business in Cuba. The United Kingdom will continue to defend vigorously the rights of British businesses to trade with and invest in Cuba. The United Kingdom shares the serious concerns of many of our partners about restrictions on civil, political and other human rights in Cuba. We will continue to raise those concerns directly with the Government of Cuba and publicly. The United Kingdom considers that dialogue and engagement with Cuba and the Cuban people are the best ways to encourage progress in Cuba and to promote greater respect for human rights of all kinds.

I thank you, Mr. President, for allowing my delegation to provide an explanation on the affirmative vote of Kiribati on this very important multilateral political and humanitarian issue, which, I admit, is a very sensitive one between our two great friends, the Government and the people of Cuba and the Government and the people of our host country, the United States. You can see, Mr. President, that I am wearing a United States Navy hat, and I am wearing a necktie. There is a message there. I wear this United States hat because I like the American people; I have many American friends. This necktie was made by a woman in Kiribati who was saved by a Cuban doctor who was working there some time back. I would have missed these great things if those two countries were not our great friends. That is the message that I wanted to convey. I wish to take this opportunity to thank the Government and the people of the United States for their great friendship with my country. We could go on and on and list such things, from the Second World War up to now. Of course I would like also to take this opportunity to thank the Government and the people of Cuba, through their Minister, who is participating in person today, for the tremendous amount of help provided. It is a small country, but it is doing a lot to help its fellow small countries. So that is the spirit in which I am making this statement. My delegation aligns itself with the stance taken by the Group of 77 and China, although some of the confrontational terms used are not entirely resonant with the peaceful and harmonious approaches that we are used to in our Kiribati culture when trying to restore peace and friendship between two good friends or neighbours in dispute or in conflict, as in this case. We in Kiribati have a saying; again, there is the wisdom of the ages where I come from: if two friends or two neighbours are fighting or having an emotional or physical conflict, it is best to go and stand in between them and try to make peace. If you cannot do that, take a bucket full of cold water and just pour it on them, and somehow they will separate and make peace again. Like many delegations in this Hall, Kiribati enjoys a good friendship and partnership with both the United States, as I mentioned earlier, and the Government and the people of Cuba. We continue to hope and pray that these two great friends of ours will find it possible to restore the friendship that their ancestors used to enjoy prior to the colonialization, industrialization and militarization of the world and to enter into a new horizon of forgetting and forgiving the wrongs of the past and full acceptance of the natural and fundamental fact of life that no one size fits all, and also arrive at the recognition of God’s wonderful creation of different countries, with different cultures and systems and different ways of making things work for different people. All of those things contribute to the beauty and diversity of the world in which we live. We sometimes get bored when everything is just the same; it is nice to have variety and diversity. It is beautiful and very nice. We believe that this is also something that the United Nations needs in its multilateral way of doing things. We need to be multicoloured and multisystem, as long as we all do things beautifully and we are all happy with what we are doing. So I hope that we do not have to impose what we think is good for us on others. Let us restrain ourselves. It may be very good for the others. I can come up with many examples of the many good things we do in Kiribati that are very good for us, and then I find friends from outside saying, oh, you are doing terrible things. That is what I mean. We need to come together and feel that having different systems for different people and that work well for different people is not necessarily bad so long as there are standards and rules so that we are all human in the way in which we do things. I hope that that the vote of Kiribati and the intervention that I am making here is like the bucket of cold water that I mentioned earlier. We hope and pray that our two great friends, the United States and Cuba, will find it possible to come together sometime in the not-too-distant future and then invite us so that we can all celebrate the beginning of new things for our two great friends, the United States and Cuba. May God bless the Government and the people of the United States and the Government and the people of Cuba as well as the whole world.

I wish to extend greetings to His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, who is in attendance here today. I wish to say, in explanation of vote after the voting on agenda item 42, that Solomon Islands today voted in favour of resolution 75/289, entitled ““Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, which was adopted today by the General Assembly. Solomon Islands commends Cuba for taking the most peaceful path in seeking the unconditional lifting of the blockade through the United Nations. This is the only place where the members of the international community, big and small, gather to ensure that what is moral is upheld, what is right is respected and what must be undone is lifted. Solomon Islands continues to believe that each and every country has an inalienable right to define and determine its own political system and to participate in international economic activities. These are fundamental principles of international law. The almost-six-decade-old unilateral coercive economic, commercial and financial blockade on Cuba has had an adverse impact on the people of Cuba and continues to hamper their development and progress, as highlighted by the Secretary-General in his report (A/75/81). Solomon Islands joined 184 countries this morning and voted in support of the resolution. Since 1992, for almost three decades, the international community has maintained its affirmation in calling for the unconditional ending of the economic, commercial and financial blockade against the peaceful people of Cuba. The overwhelming support demonstrated today by the General Assembly must be commended. The overwhelming support for the resolution reaffirms Solomon Islands’ and the General Assembly’s commitment to the principles and the letter and spirit of the United Nations Charter and to respect for the principles of sovereign equality among Member States and non-interference and non-intervention in the domestic and internal affairs of other States. Solomon Islands continues to enjoy cordial and friendly relations with both the United States and Cuba. On that note, the Solomon Islands Government and its people would like to thank the Government and the people of Cuba for the medical scholarships provided to Solomon Islands and Pacific Islands students. Since 2007, 93 Solomon Islands doctors trained in Cuba have returned home and are saving our people and are now contributing to Solomon Islands’ response against the coronavirus disease. We thank Cuba for its solidarity and friendship with Solomon Islands and the subregion of the Pacific. In closing, Solomon Islands calls for the full implementation of the resolution in order to bring an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba and encourages the United States of America and Cuba to renew their commitment to an open, constructive dialogue, based on a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.

At the outset, let me acknowledge the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. Pakistan has abiding faith in multilateralism. We believe in the fundamental principles of sovereign equality, non-interference and non-intervention, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. Unilateral measures of any nature run counter to those principles. The negative impact of such measures has also been affirmed repeatedly in numerous resolutions of the Human Rights Council and the General Assembly. Both the Human Rights Council and the Assembly recognize that people should not be deprived of their own means of subsistence, especially food and medicine. They also recognize that the extraterritorial application of law, including unilateral coercive measures that affect international humanitarian law and international human rights law, is inadmissible. Such measures are also in contravention of the principles of the inclusive societies we seek to achieve through the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In the same way, we also believe that unilateral measures are in conflict with our pledge to ensure that no country or person is left behind by guaranteeing the inclusion and participation of all, especially those who are farthest behind. The economic, financial and commercial embargo severely impacts the lives of all Cuban citizens. In that regard, we also take note of the report of the Secretary- General (A/75/81 and A/75/81/Add.1), which raises similar concerns. Ending the embargo would be a significant step towards ameliorating the quality of life of the Cuban people. In line with our long-standing commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations system, Pakistan has voted in favour of the annual resolution on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba for many years. This year, too, we voted in favour of resolution 75/289.

We have heard the last speaker in explanation of vote after the voting. The exercise of the right of reply has been requested. May I remind members that statements in the exercise of the right of reply are limited to 10 minutes for the first intervention and five minutes for the second intervention and should be made by representatives from their seats. I give the floor to the representative of Cuba.

I take the floor to exercise my right of reply in response to the statement delivered by the representative of the United States. As we do every year, we listened to the United States delegation justifying the embargo against Cuba, which has intensified during the pandemic. In doing so, the United States delegation told lies, twisted the facts and manipulated the question of human rights. There is no justification for the embargo, which contravenes the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and violates international law. It is the main obstacle to Cuba’s development, hampering our response to and recovery from the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), and constitutes a widespread, flagrant and systematic violation of the human rights of our people. The Government of the United States cannot present itself as one of Cuba’s trade partners, precisely because the embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba prevents the development of normal economic, commercial and financial ties between the two countries. Nor is the United States a provider of humanitarian aid, as it has blocked the official avenues for the delivery of such aid, including from third countries, in the midst of a pandemic. It is also false that the United States provides medicines to Cuba. The concerns that the Government of the United States says it has regarding the human rights situation in Cuba are not legitimate. If it really had such concerns, it would lift the embargo, as nothing so severely impacts those human rights as the economic, commercial and financial embargo. The United States does not have any moral authority whatsoever to judge Cuba on matters of human rights; before that, it should first take care of the many problems of that kind in its own territory. The United States is the country that is unable to address the structural and systemic racism against people of African descent, in particular in relation to police brutality, racial profiling, access to justice, the prison population, voter participation and access to education and health-care services. In the first eight months of 2020, 164 persons of African descent died at the hands of the police — one death a week. The cases of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor speak for themselves. It is the country in which hate speech is justified and supremacist, xenophobic and racist ideologies are promoted. As a result, 57.6 per cent of the 8,302 hate crimes that took place in 2019 were racially or ethnically motivated. The United States is the country in which firearms are the cause of some 30,000 deaths every year and there were 280 mass shootings in just the first half of 2021. It is the country in which health care comes at private expense and COVID-19 has disproportionately affected those living in poverty and those of African and Latin American descent and other minorities. In that country, 27 million people lost their health insurance between March and May 2020 alone. The United States is the country that keeps thousands of migrant children in detention centres, separated from their parents, and in which women generally receive lower salaries than men for work of the same value. Cuba has good reasons to be proud of its human rights record. We have made great progress in their protection and enjoyment, despite our status as a small island developing State and the severe effects of the embargo, which our people face with incomparable dignity every day and which was condemned once again by the overwhelming majority of the international community this morning. Cuba will not ask for permission to continue building, as is our sovereign right, an ever more just, prosperous, sustainable, democratic and socialist society.

May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of agenda item 42?