A/79/PV.28 General Assembly

I now call on the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Brazil, His Excellency Mauro Luiz Iecker Vieira.

I would like to warmly welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla. Brazil associates itself with the statement to be made on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. My delegation also welcomes the report of the Secretary-General on the necessity of ending the embargo against Cuba (A/79/80). The issue before us today is of great importance to Cuba and our region and has broad significance for the entire multilateral system. Brazil firmly supports the view that the only legitimate sanctions protected under international law are those that are adopted by the Security Council under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. Today, as so many times before, Brazil reiterates its firm, categorical and constant opposition to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed against Cuba. We also reject the extraterritorial application of discriminatory national laws. The embargo has caused incalculable suffering to the Cuban people, has hindered Cuba’s sustainable development and, as in many other similar cases, has mainly affected the most vulnerable. The persistence of the measure has a direct effect on the enjoyment of the rights of the Cuban people, limiting access to essential goods, such as medicines and technology that are essential for development. There is virtually international consensus on the rejection of the economic embargo against Cuba, and with good reason. The leaders of Latin America and the Caribbean, meeting at the eighth Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States on 1 March in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, sent a clear message calling for an end to the embargo. The Kingstown declaration called for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba and requested the exclusion of Cuba from the unilateral list of countries that allegedly support international terrorism. Brazil is very concerned about the current energy emergency situation in Cuba, which has been exacerbated by the embargo and the recent passage of Hurricane Oscar, which led to the loss of human lives and significant destruction in the eastern part of Cuba. I express the full solidarity of Brazil with the people and the Government of Cuba in these difficult times and our sincere condolences to the families of the victims. In order to help to mitigate the situation, Brazil has implemented, through various channels, cooperation and assistance measures, with a view to providing fuel and food to the Cuban population. In September 2023, during the forty-seventh summit of the Group of 77 and China in Havana, Brazil and Cuba signed a letter of intent to establish a programme of cooperation in the agricultural field. This included the donation of rice and powdered milk to Cuba to help improve food security. Brazil provided 20,000 tons of rice and 3,116 tons of powdered milk, which were distributed to the Cuban people to help meet basic food needs. It is clear that the severe sanctions imposed unjustly against Cuba, both by the embargo and by its inclusion on the list of State sponsors of terrorism, have further contributed to exacerbating the situation. These measures that already unjustifiably penalize the Cuban people are now preventing them from adequately responding to the humanitarian crisis caused by the hurricane. For all of these reasons, we urge the United States to reconsider its policy towards Cuba, lift the sanctions, remove Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism and promote constructive dialogue based on mutual respect and non- interference. Brazil remains committed to a solution based on the principles of solidarity and cooperation because we firmly believe that an end to the embargo will be essential for Cuba to be able to overcome the challenges that it is facing and guarantee the well-being of its people.

I would like to propose that the list of speakers for the debate on this item be closed in view of the large number of delegations inscribed on the list. Unless I hear any objection, I will take it that the Assembly agrees to close the list of speakers.

I am honoured to address the General Assembly on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). ASEAN expresses its support for draft resolution A/79/L.6, on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. ASEAN aligns itself with the statements to be delivered by the representative of Uganda, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, and by the representative of Iraq, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. ASEAN would like to say that the General Assembly has adopted this annual resolution 31 times — by an overwhelming majority — since 1992. Each year, nearly all United Nations Member States vote in favour of the resolution. This reflects the international community’s strong support for the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations, namely, sovereign equality, non-interference, non-intervention and the settlement of disputes by peaceful means to preserve international and security and justice. ASEAN, too, supports this annual resolution. ASEAN has consistently called on the United States to lift its unilateral economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba. ASEAN believes that differences between States should be resolved through dialogue and engagement rather than confrontation, isolation or unilateral actions. The Secretary-General’s report (A/79/80) continues to document the devastating impact of the United States decades-long embargo against Cuba. The embargo has put brakes on imports, exports, financial transactions, foreign investments, remittances and tourism. This has affected the trajectory of sustainable development across the board in Cuba and negatively impacted the lives of ordinary Cuban people. The United States embargo has cost Cuba over $164 billion at current prices. From March 2023 to February 2024 alone, the blockade caused Cuba over $5 billion in losses. The United States inclusion of Cuba in its list of States sponsoring terrorism in January 2021 reinforced the embargo and worsened its impacts. The listing introduced further friction to travel. It has prevented the flow of capital to Cuba. It has created new difficulties in Cuba’s banking and financial sectors, international trade and access to credit. The United States and foreign companies alike have been unable or unwilling to supply food, fuel, medicine, equipment and technology to Cuba. One notable consequence is that Cuba has been prevented from paying its dues for membership in international organizations, as banks refuse to process such transactions. United Nations agencies have also reported that they struggle to operate in Cuba because of the embargo. More critically, Cuba’s ability to provide basic living conditions for its people has been hurt. The Secretary-General’s report describes the pervasive, substantial and negative socioeconomic and environmental impacts of the embargo and the listing on ordinary Cubans. Cuba had been one of the most successful countries in attaining the Millennium Development Goals. The embargo hinders and threatens to undo the significant progress Cuba has made towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The embargo has also strained Cuba’s ability to better prepare for extreme weather events, which have become particularly pressing, especially with the alarming number of hurricanes devastating the Caribbean. As developing countries are already struggling in the perfect storm of crises, those with the ability to help should refrain from creating further challenges and obstacles. It has been 32 years. It is time for a reset. ASEAN encourages both sides to build a civilized and respectful relationship notwithstanding the differences. ASEAN adds its voice to the chorus of the Assembly, calling, first, for the United States to end its unilateral economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba as soon as possible and, secondly, for Cuba to be removed from the United States list of State sponsors of terrorism and, thirdly, for relations between the United States and Cuba to be normalized and for both countries to engage in constructive dialogue underpinned by mutual respect.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on draft resolution A/79/L.6, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, on behalf of the members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). It is highly unfortunate that the economic, commercial and financial embargo against the Republic of Cuba remains in force after six decades, notwithstanding the adverse effects of these measures on the socioeconomic well-being of the people of Cuba. The present state of affairs is also contrary to the spirit and letter of the past resolutions adopted by our Assembly in support of an immediate end to the series of measures imposed against Cuba. For its part, the OIC group has always supported the collective demand of the Assembly for an unequivocal end to the various types of embargo imposed on Cuba by the United States of America. On this occasion, we renew our support for an immediate lifting of the economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba. It is rather inconceivable that, despite the overwhelming message the Assembly has sent on previous occasions and the strong arguments advanced for lifting the embargo, it has not ceased but remains stronger than ever. Effectively, the embargo has not only affected Cuba’s commercial sector and national economic activities but has also had disastrous humanitarian consequences for the Cuban population. These policies have continued to hinder the ability of other countries to invest in and trade with Cuba because of the extraterritorial effects. We are especially worried by the extent to which the impacts of the embargo have increased exponentially following the unjust inclusion of Cuba in the list of countries that allegedly sponsor terrorism. Due to this measure, banking and financial operations have become extremely difficult for Cuba, which has also impeded Cuba’s effort to insert itself in the global supply chain. We call for the removal of Cuba from this list, which has adversely affected the level and quantum of its socioeconomic cooperation with its traditional partners in the global South, particularly within developing countries. Most unfortunately, the embargo has had a notable impact on the national health system, which is reflected in the difficulties encountered by the national industry in purchasing the materials needed to preserve food and produce medicine and other products. These restrictions have also reduced the level of international assistance from Cuba to other developing countries in the area of health and human capital development. As we join the clarion call for the end of the embargo against Cuba, we are mindful of our unwavering commitment to international law and the Charter of the United Nations, including the principle of State sovereignty. Accordingly, we strive to uphold international humanitarian law as we work for the benefit of humankind and the well-being of our peoples. Most recently, our leaders have just expressed the commitment to the Pact for the Future (resolution 79/1), which is aimed at ensuring the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals and the central objectives of multilateralism and inclusivity. To this end, the embargo against Cuba represents an obstacle to its people’s aspiration to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the commitments under the Pact for the Future. Accordingly, the OIC group joins the call of the overwhelming majority to end the embargo against Cuba. The OIC member States support draft resolution A/79/L.6 and call on all Member States to vote in favour of this annual resolution, as they have done in previous years.

It is an honour to speak at this meeting on behalf of the members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC), of which Honduras holds the pro tempore chairmanship. I welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba and his delegation. The States members of CELAC welcomed the measures, adopted in 2015 and 2016 by Cuba and the United States of America, aimed at commencing the process of normalizing their diplomatic relations. This began a new chapter in the history of peace and coexistence among the nations of the Americas. However, CELAC regrets that the embargo remains a reality for the Cuban people. In our view, this continues to be the main obstacle to normal development in Cuba. The report of the Secretary-General (A/79/80) confirms the cost of the policy for Cuba. The policy is doing substantial harm to the well-being of the Cuban people and is contrary to the desire for peace of the peoples of Latin America and the Caribbean, as set out in the proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace. The economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba is contrary to the letter and spirit and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and of international law. The member States of CELAC once again reject the application of laws and measures that are contrary to international law, such as the Helms-Burton Act, including their extraterritorial effects and the increased focus on Cuba’s international financial transactions, as such actions runs counter to the political desires of the international community. The member States of CELAC are also opposed to the inclusion of Cuba on the list of State sponsors of terrorism, which, in addition to being unsubstantiated, has increased the chilling effect of embargo-related restrictions and undermined Cuba’s chances of establishing commercial and financial relations with international partners. The member States of CELAC would like to highlight the special declaration on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba, adopted at the eighth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, held in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on 1 March. In it, the member States of CELAC requested that the Government of the United States abide by the successive resolutions of the General Assembly and, in response to repeated calls from the international community, put an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba. Furthermore, the member States of CELAC reiterate their deep concerns about the tightening of the policy and its rejection of the extraterritorial dimension of the embargo, which has had a severe impact on Cuba’s international financial transactions and the welfare of the Cuban people. The Charter of the United Nations sets out rights, obligations and principles that have become part of the legal heritage of humankind, as well as of international law. They must not be violated or undermined by any member. Member States should modify their national and international actions in line with the rights, obligations and principles set out in the Charter of the United Nations. The Community of Latin American and Caribbean States supports the adoption of draft resolution A/79/L.6, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. We underscore the inconsistency of applying unilateral coercive measures that are not supported by international law or by the letter and spirit or the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. In conclusion, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States reiterates our call on the United States of America to respond to the appeal by the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean and of every region of the world, and by its own people, to put an end to the embargo imposed on Cuba.

The State of Eritrea has the honour to take the floor on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. The unjust and abusive blockade against Cuba constitutes, without a doubt, one of the most serious, prolonged and systematic violations of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. It goes not only against the purposes and principles of this Organization but also against international human rights law, as a blockade is a form of collective punishment of the Cuban population. The General Assembly of the United Nations has consistently and overwhelmingly demanded, during the past three decades, the end of the blockade against Cuba. However, the effects of this policy on the Cuban people have been strengthened in recent years to decimate the Cuban revolution. More than 30 resolutions adopted by the Assembly have not been enough for the removal of the blockade. The message has been clear throughout these three decades: the Cuban people have the right to build their own future, free from any kind of interference or pressure. Every day the blockade continues to exist, it shames the moral authority of this Organization, the purposes and principles of the Charter and multilateralism itself. The blockade against Cuba, in addition to being morally and politically unacceptable by attempting to subjugate a small, peaceful and supportive country by means of extreme pressure, transgresses the very foundations of this Organization. Article I of the Charter states that one of the Organization’s purposes is “to develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self- determination of peoples”. However, the blockade not only violates the rights of Cubans to conduct their affairs in a sovereign manner without interference but also restricts other States of the world from freely developing their commercial ties with Cuba. Any nation in the world, rich or poor, is exposed to reprisals by the United States authorities if it maintains economic relations with Cuba. This punitive and extraterritorial nature of the blockade has been reinforced as never before since the full application of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act in May 2019, which opened up the possibility of filing lawsuits in United States courts against international companies operating with properties nationalized by the Cuban State. A fundamental part of the declared purpose of successive Governments of the United States of America to undermine the social project of the Cuban revolution, the blockade threatens the political independence of Cuba, which is contrary to what is advocated in Article 2 of the Charter of the United Nations on relations among members of this Organization. The categorization of Cuba by the United States as a country that sponsors terrorism is one of the biggest calumnies that has been set on any nation to curtail its stability. Cuba exports solidarity, not violence. Since 1963, this small country has been showing to the world the true meaning of both solidarity and cooperation by sending countless medical brigades to communities in need, as we all saw, for instance, as recently as during the largest pandemic our generation has seen, when, despite all the external aggressions, Cuba managed to develop various vaccines for the coronavirus disease, which it then put to the service of humanity. Cuba has also hosted on its own territory hundreds of young people who go there to become professionals, particularly in the healthcare field, which are greatly needed in their homelands. The world needs more vaccines, more solidarity, not more blockade. The arbitrary inclusion of Cuba in the illegal and unilateral list of countries falsely accused of sponsoring terrorism fabricated by the United States Government is simply absurd rhetoric. This is one of the most harmful measures in force to multiply the perverse effects of the blockade. Because of this labelling, Cuba has encountered even greater challenges in carrying out international banking transactions, receiving investments or applying for credit. This has even provoked the closure of bank accounts of many Cuban diplomatic missions across the world in violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Therefore, we call for the immediate removal of Cuba from this arbitrary and unilateral list, on which it should never have been included in the first place and which we firmly reject in its entirety. Year after year, the reports of the Secretary-General presented to this body under this agenda item illustrate the numerous and sensitive negative impacts caused by the blockade on the Cuban population. There are children and young people who suffer these impacts, mothers and older persons who live in deprivation and are victims of a harmful and inhumane blockade driven by political motivations. Article 13 of the Charter of the United Nations confers on the Assembly, among its functions and powers, the promotion of international cooperation in the economic, social, cultural, education and health fields. Given that the blockade against Cuba is a major impediment to the achievement of this objective, as well as an obstacle to increasing the valuable contribution that Cuba can make to international cooperation, the General Assembly will continue to fall short in the effective realization of its functions until this harmful policy is eliminated. We express our solidarity with the people and Government of Cuba. We demand the immediate and unconditional end to the blockade, and we call upon all Member States of the Organization to support once again the draft resolution (draft resolution A/79/L.6) to be submitted by the Cuban delegation under this agenda item.

I have the honour to speak on behalf of 120 Member States of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries (NAM). The General Assembly has expressed its overwhelming support for and solidarity with the people and Government of Cuba, through its principled position in favour of previous resolutions calling for the lifting of the embargo imposed against this sovereign country by the United States of America. At the seventy-eighth session of the General Assembly most of the Member States of this Organization voted in favour of resolution 78/7. In this regard, the Non- Aligned Movement reiterates once again its strong opposition to the promulgation and imposition of unilateral coercive measures that are not authorized by the relevant organs of the United Nations and that are inconsistent with the principles of international law or the Charter of the United Nations, given their extraterritorial implications and legal character. These measures contravene the best principles of the multilateral trading system and are used as tools of political, economic and financial pressure against States, in particular developing countries. The Non-Aligned Movement has repeatedly emphasized its call on the Government of the United States of America to put an end to the unilateral economic, commercial and financial embargo that it has illegally maintained against Cuba for more than six decades. The embargo, which is a breach of international law, the Charter of the United Nations and the norms and principles governing inter-State relations, constitutes a violation of Cuba’s right to fully interact with the international community. The embargo on Cuba adversely affects the well-being of its people, preventing them from, among other things, fully enjoying and realizing their human rights, including the right to development. The direct and indirect damage inflicted by the embargo against Cuba, is enormous. It affects all critical sectors of the Cuban economy, including public health, nutrition, agriculture, as well as trade, investment, tourism and banking. The banking sector has been particularly hit. The persecution of Cuban financial transactions in third-country jurisdictions, which has a significant deterrent effect in economic terms, has continued. Between 1 March 2023 and 29 February 2024, the embargo caused material damage to Cuba, estimated at $5.06 billion. For decades, Cuba has been denied access to markets, international aid from international financial institutions and technology transfer, which creates serious obstacles to socioeconomic development in the country. In addition, the embargo is the main impediment to broader access to the Internet, people-to-people contacts and the development of cultural, sport and scientific relations. The Non-Aligned Movement reaffirms that the continuation of the embargo is totally unjustifiable and that it does not correspond with our historical ties. It also runs counter to Cuba’s continued efforts to realize its sustainable development, including the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Non-Aligned Movement expresses its deep concern over the widening of the extraterritorial nature of the embargo against Cuba, including the full implementation of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. The Non-Aligned Movement also rejects the reinforcement of other measures adopted by the Government of the United States of America to tighten the embargo, which have had an impact on the worsening of the living conditions in Cuba. This is a serious setback to the process of normalization and bilateral relations between the two countries. Furthermore, the Non-Aligned Movement strongly condemns the inclusion of the Republic of Cuba on the unilateral list of State sponsors of terrorism of the Department of State of the United States of America, announced on 11 January 2021. NAM rejects the politicization of the fight against terrorism and consequently rejects the unfounded accusation that Cuba sponsors terrorism. NAM looks forward to the current United States Administration taking the necessary measures to reverse this reckless step and moving towards normalizing relations. The fact that 187 Member States voted in favour of resolution A/78/7 represents an expression of unanimity within the international community in demanding an end to this anachronistic embargo. The United States of America remains alone in pursuing its unjustified and illegal economic sanctions policy. Consequently, the member States of the Non-Aligned Movement once again urge the Government of the United States of America to yield to the will of the overall majority of the international community and rectify its failed policies by fully complying with all the relevant resolutions of the General Assembly, which call for the immediate and complete end to the embargo against Cuba. In conclusion, the Non-Aligned Movement, while reiterating its commitment to the promotion, preservation and strengthening of multilateralism, reaffirms that full respect of the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, particularly those referring to sovereign equality, non-interference and non- intervention is critical for the effective maintenance of international peace and security. Therefore, the international community must continue working together on the reversal and elimination of the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba, given, inter alia, its illegal character and its extraterritorial implications.

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on agenda item 38, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report on the item we are discussing today (A/79/80). The Group regrets that the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba for more than six decades remains in full application and continues to be enforced. We regret the policy established by the previous United States Administration aimed at reinforcing the embargo on Cuba, which has remained in effect during the current Administration, being an obstacle to the process of achieving normalized relations between the two countries. We are deeply concerned about the widening of the extraterritorial nature of the embargo on Cuba, notably through the full implementation of Title III of the Helms- Burton Act. The application of that law is a clear transgression of the freedom of commerce among nations because of its intimidating purpose to punish any trade or investment transactions between any given country and Cuba. In the same vein, we urge the immediate removal of Cuba from the United States Department of State’s list of countries that are allegedly sponsors of terrorism. Cuba is a long-standing active partner of members of the Group in promoting South-South cooperation. Thanks to the efforts made by Cuba, many countries within the Group have developed their scientific and technical potential. All we know about Cuba is friendship and solidarity. We know nothing about terrorism. The inclusion of Cuba on this list not only represents reputational damage but is also among the core elements in the recent reinforcement of the embargo. Because of this categorization, it has been extremely difficult for Cuba to engage in international banking operations, regardless of whether they be of the State, private companies or private entrepreneurs, which set extremely harmful conditions for the development and well-being of the Cuban population. The Group of 77 and China reaffirms its commitment to the purposes, principles and spirit of the Charter of the United Nations, particularly regarding the sovereign equality of States, non-intervention and non-interference in States’ internal affairs and freedom of international trade and navigation. We believe that it is the duty and responsibility of every Member State to strictly comply with those principles, including in all their policies and actions. In this case, unilateral economic, commercial and financial sanctions against Cuba should be immediately repealed. The Group of 77 and China is deeply concerned about the debilitating impact that the United States embargo, in place for more than 60 years, has had on Cuba and its people. The direct and indirect damage that the embargo has inflicted on Cuba is enormous. It affects all the critical sectors of the Cuban economy, including public health, nutrition and agriculture, as well as trade, investment, tourism and banking. The prosecution of Cuba’s financial transactions in third-country jurisdictions, which has had a significant deterrent effect in economic terms, has continued. The limited foreign investment and difficulty of access to development credits translate directly into economic hardship and humanitarian suffering for the people of Cuba. As a result of these unilateral measures, it will be impossible for Cuba to successfully embark on the path towards sustainable development envisaged in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to which all Member States have pledged support. Cuba has extensively and consistently contributed to the international community for many decades. Its assistance to other countries has been a great example of South-South cooperation. We, the members of the Group of 77 and China, reiterate our support for draft resolution A/79/L.6, as well as our call for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba imposed by the United States. The urgency and necessity of lifting the blockade is very clear, especially considering that this is the thirty-second occasion on which the General Assembly will adopt a resolution to call for its end. We therefore appeal to the international community to step up its efforts in calling for the elimination of the embargo, not just to improve Cuba’s prospects, but also to help all members of the global community in their quest to fully realize their economic and social development.

I have the honour to make the following remarks, on behalf of the Group of African States, on agenda item 38, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. This matter continues to be of great importance and concern for the African Group and, indeed, for Africa as a whole. For years, African Heads of State and Government, at the ordinary session of the African Union assemblies, have reiterated their position, calling for the lifting of sanctions on Cuba’s people and Government. The African Group reiterates its position that the illegal sanctions, particularly the implementation of Title III of the Helms- Burton Act, are the main obstacles to Cuba’s realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Another matter of grave concern is the unjust inclusion of Cuba by the United States on the list of countries that allegedly support terrorism, which has further exacerbated the financial restrictions on Cuba emanating from this embargo. We therefore call for the removal of Cuba from this list. As a responsible member of the international community, Africa has consistently been concerned about Cuba’s dilemma because of the importance it attaches to the achievement 2030 Agenda Sustainable Development Goal. Cuba has made numerous positive contributions over the decades to Africa and many States and people all over the world. The adoption of the annual resolution to end Cuba’s blockade by the United States has, for 31 years now, represented the call of all countries. The African Group will continue to reaffirm its full support for the draft resolution and wishes to express its regret about the setback in bilateral relations between Cuba and the United States. We call on the United States Government to work towards restoring positive relations and lifting the long-standing blockade imposed on the people and Government of Cuba. The African Group wishes to reiterate that it will remain firm in its principled position of total solidarity with Cuba, its people and its Government while calling for an immediate end to the economic, commercial and financial blockade. The African Group supports the draft resolution and calls on all Member States to do the same.

I have the honour to deliver the statement on behalf of the 14 member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Every year, the membership of the United Nations, through its support for the annual resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba” calls for the removal of illegal measures that have yet to find any legitimate justification. The unilateral imposition of these extraterritorial measures not only undermines the principles of multilateralism but also violates international law. In that vein, we reiterate that the principles set forth in the Charter of the United Nations, namely, sovereignty, non-interference, non-intervention and the maintenance of friendly relations among States, remain pillars of our civilized society and must be applied, upheld and adhered to equally by every Member State. CARICOM remains deeply concerned about the continued application of these measures. The debilitating consequences continue to unjustly burden the everyday lives of the Cuban people and impede the socioeconomic development of the nation. The recent collapse of Cuba’s national grid is symbolic of the severe limitations that persist as a result of the embargo, including restricted access to fuel imports, which has placed immense strain on Cuba to maintain its power grid. Membership in these United Nations signifies that States agree to uphold the Charter of the United Nations. This commitment indicates a critical understanding that we will defer to the principles contained within the Charter to guide our actions on the global stage and define our relations among States. This is how we safeguard effective multilateralism, friendly relations and peaceful coexistence. No single State has the authority to circumvent these principles or exploit them for national ambitions, particularly when such actions are in violation of international law and in variance with the will of the international community. Within this context, CARICOM echoes the calls of the international community for States that have applied — and continue to apply — laws and measures that violate the Charter of the United Nations and international law to take the steps necessary to repeal or invalidate them as soon as possible, in accordance with the legal regime. We further repeat our call for Cuba to be removed from the United States Department of State’s list of countries deemed to be State sponsors of terrorism. This designation not only isolates Cuba on the global stage, but directly undermines the principle of leaving no one behind, a fundamental feature of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals. We therefore urge the United States to heed the calls of the international community, in line with obligations under international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, and take the steps necessary towards restoring trust and rebuilding friendly relations for the shared interests of a peaceful Caribbean and strengthened multilateralism. To this end, we also call for the resumption of the normalization of relations with Cuba. CARICOM continues to stand in solidarity with Cuba and its people. We remain committed to defending the purposes and principles contained within the Charter of the United Nations and to fostering a global environment rooted in mutual respect and cooperation. I would now like to make the following remarks in my national capacity. Grenada remains deeply troubled that Cuba continues to experience severe economic hardships due to the imposition of the economic, commercial and financial blockade that has lasted over 60 years, remains in place and continues to serve no constructive purpose. In that regard, every year, the General Assembly considers this agenda item and specific resolution before us, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. And every year, the General Assembly, by an overwhelming majority, adopts this annual resolution within these hallowed halls, an action that signals to us a strong repudiation and condemnation of this ongoing blockade imposed on Cuba. Furthermore, Grenada, as an independent Member and sovereign State with a strong conviction in the sovereign equality of States, reiterates the recognition of the sovereign equality of States and its adherence to the principles of the United Nations, and urges all Member States to do the same. Additionally, Grenada continues to categorically and unequivocally state and reiterate that it neither promulgates, applies nor condones laws or measures that encroach on or undermine the sovereign rights of any State or restrict or hinder international trade or navigation by any State. It is in this context that Grenada reiterates its call for the complete removal of the economic, commercial and financial embargo unilaterally imposed against Cuba by the United States of America. Like many States, Grenada has shared a long- standing, warm, close and profoundly deep friendship with Cuba. It is the unarguably selfless, material and intangible contributions made by Cuba that, Grenada believes, has added tremendous value to the Caribbean community, the other countries of the Latin American region and other Member States of the wider international community. Furthermore, given the invaluable expertise and contributions and inputs made over generations by Cuba in such fields as culture and sports, health and medicine, humanitarian interventions across the globe, to name but a few, it is almost unimaginable to think and difficult to see how the world is simply not a better place. It is against this background that we recognize that the current blockade, in particular, has done nothing more than to suffocate and impede what could otherwise be the tremendous economic and socioeconomic advancement of the Cuban people. Instead, what we have seen through this six-decade-long blockade has been continued hardship for the Cuban people, and it has had only counterproductive effects with regard to the goal of human development. Moreover, it has continually violated the sovereign rights of Cuba and its people, in direct contravention of the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of States. Consequently, Grenada will continue to support the draft resolution before us, A/79/L.6. We will also further encourage any States that may have or continue to apply laws and measures that might reinforce such hardships as created by the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba to take the steps necessary to repeal or invalidate them as soon as possible, in accordance with their legal regimes. In closing, Grenada will continue to join the international community in fully encouraging, supporting and promoting all necessary actions that lead to a decisive resolution bringing to an end the economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba. Grenada stands with Cuba.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica. My delegation aligns itself with the statements made by the representatives of Grenada, on behalf of the Caribbean Community; of Uganda, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries; of Honduras, on behalf of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States; and of Iraq, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. From the outset, my delegation unreservedly opposes the economic, commercial and financial embargo that has been imposed on the Cuban people by the United States for over six decades. We view this as an egregious, hegemonic and flagrant violation of the fundamental human rights of the Cuban people and a regressive measure to stifle the economic advancement of the Republic of Cuba. This agenda item should not be viewed by some States as just another chorus of platitudes, as an overwhelming majority of States have consistently and vociferously condemned this embargo and call for an immediate cessation of this grave travesty. This unilateral coercive measure and unjustified action is contrary to international law and the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Furthermore, it represents the most severe and protracted system ever applied against any country and continues to be the main obstacle towards the development of all the potentialities of the Cuban economy. The recent failure of Cuba’s power grid, which resulted in a nationwide power outage, illustrates this fact. The main cause is the fuel shortage, which underscores the brutal impact of this economic and financial embargo. My delegation therefore strongly urges the few States that continue to support these sanctions to heed the call of the overwhelming majority of us gathered here and lift this archaic embargo. Let us support the full integration of the Cuban people into the global financial and trading systems. My delegation is mindful of the views raised by the Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur on the negative impact this embargo has on the enjoyment of the human rights of the Cuban people, including their right to health, right to proper sanitation and right to decent work, among others. Throughout this period, numerous banks have suspended their operations with Cuba, including transfers for the purchase of food, medicines, fuel and goods for the population. The prohibition on regular trade and on importing from third countries goods containing more than 10 per cent of United States components has not been modified. The unilateral and arbitrary list of restricted Cuban entities and the list of prohibited lodgings also continue to be in force, and Cuba is still included in the list of State sponsors of terrorism. My delegation therefore calls for the immediate removal of Cuba from the list of countries considered to be sponsors of terrorism. We ask instead that our efforts be redirected at combating the real threats to global peace and security in our region. For decades Cuba has been training medical doctors, nurses, engineers and other professionals, as well as providing technical assistance to developing countries as part of its South-South cooperation. Additionally, Cuba continues to add its voice to the fight against terrorism and drug trafficking in the Caribbean and the rest of the world. This annual resolution has historically received more than two-thirds support of the Member States of the United Nations, which symbolizes a clear and distinctive recognition for the need to end the blockade. The Government of Dominica will continue to embrace the Government and the people of Cuba as a fellow member of the United Nations and a sister nation of the Caribbean. Our diplomatic relations have provided a platform for strengthening cultural and political ties with some key areas of solidarity, including education and health services. The Government of Dominica further views the application of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act as a serious concern, resulting in negative consequences, and therefore reiterates the call for the end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. We call for a greater sense of diplomatic intercourse to prevail as a key strategy for resolving outstanding issues between members of the international community.

The Russian Federation aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. We thank the Secretary-General for the comprehensive report (A/79/80) on this agenda item. This report, together with the material of the Special Rapporteur of the Human Rights Council on the impact of unilateral coercive measures on the exercise of human rights, as well as with the information provided by the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Cuba and other United Nations agencies and experts, presents a vast trove of information and data that confirms the lawlessness wrought by the United States against Cuba. Russia’s principled position on this issue remains unchanged. Together with the overwhelming majority of the members of the international community, we strongly advocate the immediate lifting of the illegal embargo imposed by the United States more than 62 years ago against Cuba. We believe that it is utterly futile. The economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba represents a remnant of the Cold War and obstructs cooperation between Cuba and multilateral institutions. It prevents Cuba’s fully fledged participation in international and regional cooperation, as well as the international division of labour. This is despite the fact that the Republic of Cuba does not pose a threat to the security of the United States or its citizens. Furthermore, we view such actions by Washington as a direct breach of the tenets of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. This is an egregious example of extraterritorial unilateral coercive measures preventing a sovereign State from pursuing its own development model for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This is also an encroachment on the inalienable right of the Cuban people to a dignified life. In this respect, the United States embargo against Cuba is a stark example of neocolonialism cloaked in the terminology of the so-called “rules-based order”. Today it is clear that such measures are also designed to intimidate other States and to perpetuate the United States neocolonial domination, not just over developing countries, but also over its own partners. This is something that was discussed in past years and will continue to be discussed here in this Hall. The embargo against Cuba restricts the exercise of the rights of nearly 200 States that wish to trade with and cooperate with the Cuban people. Cuba itself has earned a great deal of respect, as it courageously resists the inhumane and senseless blockade, while at the same time helping those in need in various countries throughout the world, including by deploying teams of highly trained doctors and providing medicines. Many countries received direct Cuban assistance as they sought to resist the coronavirus disease pandemic. The Russian Federation takes great pride in the fact that, despite the obstacles imposed by the United States, we have managed to develop economic, commercial and humanitarian cooperation with Cuba. We have been implementing projects in various areas, such as tourism, energy and agriculture. We will continue to advance this cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and solidarity with the brotherly Cuban people. What speaks volumes is that not only Governments, but also societies in the majority of the States throughout the world, including dozens of non-governmental organizations within the United States itself and in other countries whose voices the United States delegation itself so ardently champions at the United Nations, vehemently oppose this nefarious practice of stifling the will of the Cuban people. This embargo is wreaking immense damage to the economy of that country, impeding its Government’s delivery of large-scale socioeconomic reforms. Today many have reiterated staggering figures, assessing the cumulative damage to the Cuban economy to be $164 billion. This is a heavy burden, which lies primarily on the shoulders of the people of the island, curbing opportunities to advance their legitimate interests and aspirations. We emphasize once again that the blockade affects ordinary people and their children. Their rights have been violated for decades. At the same time, the United States delegation at the United Nations endlessly reiterates slogans about the United States Government’s alleged commitment to international obligations in the area of international human rights law and in development assistance, as well as in the area of “the protection of the needs and interests of succeeding generations”. Turning to the attempts by the United States to portray Cuba as a State sponsor of terrorism, these are completely and utterly delusional. This step by the Government of the United States has nothing to do whatsoever with international efforts to counter terrorism or its sponsors. This is merely a reflection of politically motivated cynicism on the part of the United States, the perpetuation of the unlawful, inhumane embargo against this island of freedom. Cuba has been conscientiously fulfilling its international obligations. It has been helping to find political solutions. It has been advocating for the maintenance of peace and security. We believe that a definitive end to the embargo will benefit the peoples of both Cuba and the United States, and will, on the whole, help to improve international relations at the regional and global levels. Our position remains unchanged. We are guided by the core principles of the Charter of the United Nations on the inadmissibility of any discriminatory measures and interference in the domestic affairs of States. We call for the immediate lifting of the embargo and for Cuba to be removed from the United States list of State sponsors of terrorism. The Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation recently made a statement to that effect, as it has traditionally done. We will circulate the statement as an official document of the General Assembly. In conclusion, we would like to express our support for the draft resolution submitted by our Cuban colleagues on this matter (A/79/L.6), and we call on all delegations to vote in favour of it.

Today I am taking the floor to state that Mexico categorically condemns the economic, commercial and financial embargo that has been imposed against Cuba for more than six decades, as it is contrary to international law and not in line with the values on which the peaceful coexistence between the peoples of the Americas and the Caribbean is based. Mexico is of the view that the restriction on exports, the elimination of certain trade benefits, the obstruction of the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the obstacles to obtaining credit from international financial institutions are all unjustifiable and unjust measures and must be suspended. Only in this way can we help to take a decisive step towards the consolidation of a more prosperous and competitive hemisphere and, above all, a more just and peaceful one, made up of sovereign nations. As was stated by the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Mexico, Juan Ramón de la Fuente Ramírez, the relationship with Latin America and the Caribbean community is a priority for my Government. That is why we have worked hard to strengthen integration processes and expand dialogue and cooperation with the countries of our region. Mexico reiterates that in relations between sovereign nations, any unilateral measure conceived as a means of applying political pressure from the outside in order to bring about changes in the domestic affairs of another State contravenes the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and undermines peace among peoples. We firmly believe that there should not be unilateral sanctions of any kind. We express once again our firm support for Cuba, a country with which Mexico will continue to work in order to overcome shared challenges through cooperation, dialogue and regional integration, as we demonstrated in recent days by offering our full assistance to Cuba after the electricity grid crisis that left the island without power for several days. Latin America and the Caribbean is a diverse region, but it is one with a spirit of unity that should be strengthened, not weakened, by unilateral policies. Therefore, once again, we call upon the United States Government to put an end to the embargo without further delay. What it has been repeatedly endorsed, which is not even achieving its original objectives, must be discarded. The time has come to open up a new chapter and allow Cuba to fully participate in the global community without the restrictions imposed by this unjust and inhumane embargo.

The Philippines aligns itself fully with the statements delivered by the representative of Singapore on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the representative of Uganda on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the representative of Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. The Philippines supports the implementation of resolution 78/7 on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. The report of the Secretary-General (A/79/80) clearly shows that the international community once again strongly supports an end to the six-decade embargo, an unjust and unjustified sanctions policy. The embargo has been perceived as a violation of the Charter of the United Nations and Cuba’s sovereignty, as it prevents the country from freely participating in global trade, which has implications for the country’s journey towards sustainable development. All countries should be free to engage in trade and commerce for the prosperity of their peoples. The embargo has had a severe impact on the Cuban people, restricting their access to essential goods and services. The lifting of the embargo will afford Cuba greater access to necessary medicine, food and other supplies, which would help to alleviate some of the economic hardships that the Cuban people continue to experience. Cuba should be allowed to import the supplies necessary to provide basic services to its citizens in accordance with article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The embargo has limited Cuba’s access to education resources and opportunities, which has had a negative impact on the country’s education system. Lifting the embargo would provide new opportunities for Cuban students and teachers to access education resources in their country and abroad. The embargo has significantly limited Cuba’s access to technology and equipment that could help the country address its development challenges, including the full implementation and achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Cuba would be able to participate more fully in the global economy, promoting international trade and investment. This will also provide new opportunities for businesses from the global South to access the Cuban market and vice versa, which would lead to increased economic activity and job creation in the global South. Lifting the embargo could also potentially contribute to the recovery of global tourism. Cuba’s greater participation in tourism would not only facilitate the growth and development of Cuba’s tourism sector but also contribute to the development of related industries through positive spillover effects. Furthermore, Cuba’s greater participation in global tourism also creates opportunities for the tourism sector in the global South. Finally, we believe that lifting the embargo against Cuba would promote regional development and stability in the Caribbean region. In this regard, let me conclude by reiterating the Philippines call for the United States to lift the embargo against Cuba unconditionally once and for all.

The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela would like to thank the Secretary-General for his most recent report on the issue we are discussing today (A/79/80). We also extend our warmest regards to His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, who is joining us in this meeting today. We also align ourselves with the statements delivered by the delegations of Iraq, Uganda, Honduras and Eritrea on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, and the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations, respectively. For more than 30 years we have gathered at the General Assembly to demand, almost unanimously, the immediate and unconditional lifting of the economic, commercial and financial embargo that has been criminally imposed against the Republic of Cuba for more than 60 years and has affected all aspects of the lives of the Cuban people. The international community recognizes the illegality of this embargo, which is in flagrant violation of all norms of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. It is an embargo that has concentrated the most unjust, severe and prolonged system of unilateral coercive measures ever applied to any country in modern history. This is a calculated collective punishment against more than 11 million Cuban sisters and brothers who have decided to not to bow to the blackmail and coercion of the United States regime. It is a planned crime, part of the maximum pressure policy that has its roots in the supremacist mentality of the Monroe Doctrine and that continues to be applied throughout the American continent today. Today, the embargo, which became even tighter after the activation of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act, is the main obstacle for the development of this sister nation of Latin America and the Caribbean. To put this in perspective, in the past year alone, the embargo caused material damage and losses of more than $5 billion. The embargo against Cuba constitutes a massive violation of the human rights of its people. No Cuban family escapes its impacts. This was particularly evident in recent days when the power grid of that sister nation was severely affected, leaving entire families without electricity for days. This is a direct consequence of the embargo, celebrated on social media by United States representatives, thus acknowledging their responsibility for a clearly criminal policy. The arbitrary inclusion of Cuba on a unilateral list of the United States Government, designating it as a State sponsor of terrorism, deserves special mention. This is a grotesque work of imperial propaganda that, without having any basis in reality, manipulates such a sensitive issue solely to increase the aggression against the Cuban nation. Everyone knows that Cuba has no connection to sponsoring terrorism, but the whole world is threatened into obeying the orders of the United States Government at the risk of facing economic coercion in their own territories. The real promoter and financier of terrorism is the United States regime. We demand that it stop these double standards and remove Cuba from a spurious list on which it should never have been included in the first place. In the same vein, we demand an end to this anachronistic policy which, owing to its extraterritoriality, affects any country or entity that maintains legal and sovereign economic, commercial or financial relations with the Republic of Cuba. The time has come to correct this historical injustice and put an end to an imperial delusion that imposes its national laws on the entire international community. Despite this reality, the United States regime will never achieve its goals of turning Cuba into a colony because the Cuban people are determined to exercise their right to self- determination, independence and national sovereignty. We support the draft resolution against the embargo imposed against Cuba (A/79/L.6), and we conclude by calling for a massive vote in favour of it, a vote for concrete action to lift the embargo, a vote in favour of Cuba’s independence, a vote in favour of international law and multilateralism and, lastly, a vote in favour of an end to neocolonial projects of domination that use embargoes and unilateral sanctions which have no place in the twenty-first century. Let us all support the Cuban people in their just demands.

I would like to extend a warm welcome to His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. Viet Nam aligns itself with the statements made by the representatives Uganda, Iraq and Singapore on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Group of 77 and China, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, respectively. For more than 60 years, the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba has been the longest-lasting system of unilateral sanctions imposed on any nation. The embargo not only constitutes a violation of international law, it contradicts the fundamental principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations. The embargo deprives ordinary Cubans of access to essential supplies and services, such as food, medicine and equipment. It has had devastating impacts on the Cuban economy, limiting Cuba’s access to international markets and to the capital and technology necessary for economic development, discouraging foreign investment and hindering economic growth. Figures of economic losses can be found in the latest Secretary-General’s report on this agenda item (A/79/80), and they are numerous. Most importantly, it is not possible to assess the full extent of negative impacts on Cuba’s human development. Decades of continuous embargo have denied ordinary Cubans of opportunities to enhance human capital and productivity. The damage of these restrictions was even exacerbated during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, and especially with the classification, as of 2021, of Cuba as a State sponsor of terrorism. Such a designation only intensified challenges by imposing additional restrictions on travel and remittances to Cuba, severely limiting the much-needed resource inflows into the Cuban economy. It also creates further obstacles for foreign companies looking to invest and operate in Cuba, ultimately affecting the development and well-being of its population. As we look to the future, we must acknowledge that generations of Cubans risk being left behind, unable to achieve their full potential and their aspirations for prosperity, progress and sustainable development. Viet Nam endured the harmful consequences of embargoes first-hand in the past. And we are fully aware of the damage and suffering they inflict, especially on ordinary people. It is therefore Viet Nam’s consistent stance to oppose unilateral coercive measures, including embargoes placed against sovereign States. It is with such conviction that we will vote unreservedly in favour of draft resolution A/79/L.6, aligning ourselves with the overwhelming majority of the Member States that for the past 32 years have advocated for the lifting of the embargo on Cuba. The continuation of these embargoes is unjust and is inexcusable. It is not only detrimental to the Cuban people but also prevents many others around the world from gaining access to Cuba’s assistance and expertise. Viet Nam is a long-time beneficiary of Cuban assistance and is particularly grateful for Cuba’s timely provision of COVID-19 vaccines during the global pandemic. Cuba has a proud and commendable history of humanitarian engagement, responding quickly to natural disasters and epidemics. For many years, Cuban doctors and medical professionals have been at the forefront of providing assistance to those in need, particularly in the developing world. Cuba is a leader and an exemplary representative of the global South, promoting international solidarity, contributing to South-South cooperation and championing the legitimate interests of developing countries. We urge the United States to immediately remove Cuba from its list of State sponsors of terrorism and to end the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba. This action would be a crucial first step in reversing the United States current policies towards Cuba. It is our sincere hope that the United States and Cuba can engage in constructive dialogue and work towards the normalization of relations based on equality, reciprocity and respect for each other’s sovereignty and political independence. Such efforts would benefit both peoples and contribute to peace, stability and sustainable development in the region and the world. Viet Nam stands ready to play its part in fostering dialogue and mutual trust in this process and once again firmly reiterates the strong friendship, cooperation and solidarity with the people of Cuba.

I would like to extend greetings to the Foreign Minister of Cuba, who is with us in the Hall today. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Caribbean Community, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, the Group of 77 and China and the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. The membership of the United Nations convenes annually in these hallowed halls to vote overwhelmingly in favour of the resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. What this means is that each year, since 1992, the international community has consistently taken a principled stance against the embargo on Cuba. This opposition is steeped in the understanding and recognition that these extraterritorial and unilateral coercive measures imposed on Cuba by the United States are not only anachronistic but are also grave violations of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations, which threaten the sovereignty of the people of Cuba. International law, including the Charter of the United Nations, serves as the backbone of our civilized society, reinforcing global peace, stability and security. To function effectively, however, it must be equally applied, upheld and adhered to. Great Powers can neither be permitted to exploit nor manipulate international law to serve nationalist agendas or promote political jingoism. The embargo persists as a policy in search of a legitimate justification. At one point, it was enacted to contain the unsubstantiated security threat posed by Cuba. At another, it was to thwart the perceived ideological menace of communism in our hemisphere. Then, it was in retaliation for expropriated property, after that to establish a particular type of democracy. Today we hear of human rights. Many other rationalizations have been similarly advanced and discarded. Despite the tenuous nature of each justification, the embargo endures, its inhumane nature intensifying daily hardships faced by the people of Cuba. The embargo’s restrictive nature limits Cuba’s ability to import fuel and other necessary resources, further burdening the national energy system and contributing to the recent collapse of the national grid. The principles of the sovereignty of all States, non-intervention and non- interference are indispensable cornerstone principles that are prerequisites for the peaceful coexistence of States. They enable the achievement of the purposes and principles set forth in the Charter of the United Nations. No State, regardless of its size or might, has the authority to override the collective voice of the international community or circumvent its legal obligations and responsibilities. As responsible actors in the international community, all Member States have the duty to respect international law. Lifting the embargo on Cuba is the only way to restore trust, something our world urgently needs, and foster an environment for constructive dialogue that would contribute to reinforced multilateralism. In this vein, we also reiterate our call for the urgent removal of Cuba from the United States State Department’s list of countries deemed to be State sponsors of terrorism. This designation remains both unjust and wrongfully imposed and contributes to the chilling effects of the embargo, as well as Cuba’s international isolation. The Government and people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Cuba. We continue to defend the principles unambiguously set forth in the Charter of the United Nations and call for the equal application of international law in all contexts. In this vein, we echo the overwhelming calls of the majority for the immediate removal of these illegal and unjust measures. Peace profound still.

Namibia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Group of African States and the Group of 77 in China. The year 2024 marks the sixty-second year of the United States sanctions against the Republic of Cuba, resulting in a disenfranchising economic, commercial and financial blockade, one that has persisted longer than any in modern history. The persistence in maintaining this embargo disregards the clear position of the international community and the provisions of successive resolutions on the subject in the Assembly. We thank the Secretary-General for his report (A/79/80), which reminds us how profoundly these hardships continue to affect the sisterly Republic of Cuba, permeating all aspects of its socioeconomic development. This is a stark contrast to the ideals we champion, a violation of fundamental human rights, our quest for inclusivity and the ultimate goal of leaving no one behind. It is for this reason that Namibia continues to call for the end of the economic, financial and commercial blockade against Cuba, as we regard it as a major obstacle to our collective pursuit of a better future. This blockade is not merely an economic measure; it represents a profound injustice. It disrupts the supply of essential goods and services, including fundamental rights, such as access to adequate and sufficient medical resources, undermining the health and well-being of the Cuban people. Imagine families questioning their place in this world and children deprived of opportunities to grow into global citizens who contribute to our common future. Namibia further expresses growing concern and disappointment at the inhumane treatment of Cuba and its people by the United States. It is unthinkable that in the twenty-first century, an era in which we should be forging bonds of cooperation and unity, unilateral actions are still used as a tool of oppression and political gain. This is not a political issue; this is a humanitarian crisis. My delegation continues to stand in resolute solidarity with Cuba and strongly denounces the unfounded label of “State sponsor of international terrorism” unjustly placed upon Cuba by the United States Government. This categorization lacks any factual basis and only serves to deepen the suffering of the Cuban people by curtailing their aspirations towards equitable socioeconomic development. Since 1992, the vast majority of the General Assembly has consistently voted in favour of resolutions calling for the cessation of this embargo, echoing the desire of the majority of Member States. As we prepare to once again vote on this agenda item, we anticipate a strong outcome in support of ending the embargo. The Sustainable Development Goals call for an inclusive and equitable world, one where every individual can thrive. Yet in every session of the General Assembly, we are reminded of how the embargo starkly contradicts these ideals, perpetuating poverty and inequality, limiting our ability to collectively work towards a sustainable future and denying the Cuban people the chance to fully participate in the global economy. We must jointly continue to challenge this injustice by advocating for the end of the embargo as our contribution to upholding the principles of humanity and solidarity that unite us all. Together we can foster a future where every nation has the opportunity to flourish and where the dreams of future generations can be realized without the burden of oppressive policies. As our esteemed President of Namibia, His Excellency Mr. Nangolo Mbumba, reiterated during the general debate of the seventy-ninth session of the Assembly (see A/79/PV.9), Namibia once again reaffirms its unwavering support for the Cuban people and their struggle against this unjust blockade. We call, once again, for the unconditional lifting of the economic embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba. These measures are counterproductive and do not espouse the promise laid out in the Preamble of the Charter to promote social progress and improve the standards of living for all in greater freedom. In closing, my delegation expresses profound regret over the contraction in bilateral relations between Cuba and the United States. We therefore urge the United States to take meaningful steps to lift this long-standing and unjustifiable blockade. Let us once again unite in support of draft resolution A/79/L.6, on the “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. Together, we can reaffirm our commitment to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the spirit of multilateralism.

Allow me to begin by welcoming the delegation of Cuba, led by His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. I also express our thanks for draft resolution A/79/L.6, which will be presented, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. We do not need to speak at length to state clearly what our message is in this situation. Year after year, this resolution has received virtually unanimous support from the international community. Today, once again, Panama reaffirms its strong conviction in the importance of lifting these restrictive measures. That is why we insist on the need to put an end to this embargo, which has harmed and sacrificed the Cuban people for more than six decades. Our country, faithful to the principles of the Charter, reiterates its commitment to the sovereignty of States, non-interference in domestic affairs and the freedom of trade and navigation in accordance with the norms of international law. Panama, as a nation that promotes dialogue and international cooperation, has been a witness to the adverse impact of this embargo on the economic and social development and health of the Cuban people. The embargo policy not only harms the Cuban people, but it also affects the international community, as has been pointed out repeatedly in previous Assembly resolutions. The coercive unilateral sanctions affect the transparent practice of international trade. Our foreign policy is guided by mutual respect and the peaceful settlement of disputes. In this regard, Panama has always advocated the re-establishment of bilateral dialogue between the United States and Cuba, convinced that only through sincere dialogue, without preconditions, will it be possible to move towards a normalization of relations. The embargo, as it has been applied, constitutes an unsustainable barrier to development and the economic opportunities of the Cuban people. The effects of the embargo have worsened in recent years, as reflected by the figures and testimonies presented by Cuba in their recent report. Between March 2023 and February 2024, the strict application of these measures has continued, particularly affecting sectors such as health, education and food, which are fundamental for the well-being of the Cuban people. We firmly believe that the lifting of the embargo is imperative — not only because of the harm it does to Cuba and to its people but also because it is an assault against international law and the principles that underpin the Organization. I conclude by expressing, once again, Panama’s support for the draft resolution that will be presented for our consideration, and we reaffirm our commitment to the search for peaceful and multilateral solutions. We are confident that with sufficient political will, we will be able to move towards a future where dialogue and cooperation replace unilateral sanctions and confrontation.

We align ourself with the statements made, respectively, by the representatives of Chad, on behalf of the Group of African States; of Uganda, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries; of Iraq, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China; and of Eritrea, on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. At the outset, I would like to welcome His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, and to wish him a pleasant stay. This is the thirty-third time that the General Assembly is considering a draft resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. As in previous years, my delegation has, with perseverance and firmness, joined the call of 191 of 193 Member States of the United Nations for an end to this embargo, which, for more than half a century, has been harming the economy, commerce, culture and society of the noble Cuban people. At its thirty-seventh ordinary session, the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, held in Addis Ababa on 17 and 18 February, adopted, for the fifteenth consecutive time, a resolution condemning the embargo against Cuba, reaffirming the links of friendship and solidarity that unite the Cuban and African peoples, and calling for the exclusion of Cuba from the unilateral list of States that allegedly sponsor terrorism. In 2016, aware of this global outcry and overwhelming call for the United States to end this embargo, the then President of the United States, Barack Obama, took initiatives and decisions towards the realization of this unanimous global demand from the Members of the United Nations, the world’s population, in general, and that of Cuba, in particular, which were filled with hope and optimism to see a long-held desire finally fulfilled. Indeed, the diplomatic missions of both countries were opened, visits were made from and to the United States and Cuba and commercial flights between the two nations resumed, along with other measures that provided a hopeful horizon on the path towards the total lifting and end of the unilateral isolation unjustly imposed against Cuba. With this positive development in 2015 and 2016 in mind, my delegation would like to take this opportunity to once again — as we have been doing and will continue to do — appeal to the Government of the United States to continue with the impetus begun in 2015 and 2016 by fully implementing resolution 72/4, that is, the immediate lifting of the embargo against Cuba, in all of its aspects. This appeal, launched in previous years and again this year by almost all the Member States of this international Organization, is based on the principles of justice, re-establishing Cuba’s just right — like that of any other country — to enjoy trade and economic, financial and other relations with other countries; democracy, as it respects the vote of the overwhelming majority of Member States — 191 in favour and only two against; and human rights, respecting the rights of the Cuban people to develop, feed themselves and have the electricity that they need in order to carry out various activities for the well-being of this brotherly people. The United Nations espouses these principles on a daily basis, particularly since its recent adoption of the Pact for the Future (resolution 79/1), which affirms that no one should be left behind. In conclusion, the Republic of Equatorial Guinea once again reiterates its call on the Government of the United States to end the embargo against Cuba immediately and to remove it from the list of countries that allegedly sponsor terrorism. We invite everyone to vote in favour of draft resolution A/79/L.6.

Algeria aligns itself with the statements delivered, respectively, on behalf of the Group of African States, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the Group of 77 and China. We would like to add the following remarks in our national capacity. At the outset, we recognize the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, and extend to him our warmest welcome. We are also grateful to the Secretary-General for his report on this important issue (A/79/80). We are guided by the rules of international law and the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, particularly those concerning developing friendly relations among States, achieving international cooperation, respecting the principles of the sovereign equality of States, ensuring non-interference in the internal affairs of States and promoting freedom of international trade and navigation. Algeria therefore reaffirms its unwavering commitment to advocating the lifting of the unjust embargo against Cuba, which has lasted for over six decades. Our debate today regarding draft resolution A/79/L.6, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, an annual resolution considered today for the thirty- third consecutive year, demonstrates once again the international community’s steadfast support for the Cuban Government and people. It also reaffirms the urgent need to lift the blockade unjustly imposed against Cuba. This year, the Secretary-General’s report has again highlighted the terrible impact of this embargo on Cuba. In this regard, Algeria continues to express deep concern and disappointment about the severe and inhumane treatment of the Cuban people. The ongoing economic, commercial and financial blockade continues to have disastrous consequences for the economic growth and socioeconomic development of Cuba and its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. Algeria firmly stands in resolute solidarity with Cuba and its people and rejects the imposition of unilateral laws and decisions. We also oppose unilateral coercive measures not authorized by the relevant United Nations organs, as such measures violate human rights and hinder the well-being and prosperity of peoples. In the same vein, we demand the exclusion of Cuba from the unilateral list of alleged State sponsors of terrorism. In conclusion, Algeria once again reaffirms its steadfast support for the Cuban people and their cause against the blockade. Just as we have done in previous years, my delegation will vote in favour of the draft resolution.

The Republic of Belarus associates itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. We welcome the participation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla. The Republic of Belarus categorically objects to unilateral restrictive measures against a Member State of the United Nations. The imposition of unilateral sanctions represents an egregious violation of the Charter of the United Nations and of international law, which jeopardizes the system of international relations by increasing the potential for conflict and hostility. The ongoing economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba imposed by the United States of America, in violation of the principles of international law on non-intervention in the domestic affairs of States, the obligation of States to cooperate with one another, the equality and self-determination of peoples, the sovereign equality of States, as well as respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, has for decades constrained the development of an independent country, preventing Cuba from enjoying fair opportunities for the advancement of progress, prosperity and sustainable development on an equal footing with other States in the world. We again stress that the main victims of unilateral sanctions are the Cuban people. The illegal restrictions on trade, currency, banking and tourism are a flagrant violation of human rights, doing harm to millions of Cuban citizens, causing economic uncertainty, unemployment and a lack of opportunities. The economic blockade against Cuba is the most protracted, inhumane act of economic warfare ever perpetrated against an independent State. This goes far beyond bilateral relations, affecting not only the Cuban people, but also trade between Cuba and third countries. The unabated attempts to isolate Cuba, in breach of international law and the resolutions adopted annually by the overwhelming majority of Member States, are examples of blatant disregard for the principle of multilateralism and the political will of the international community. We view the extraterritorial consequences of the blockade and the unilateral inclusion of Cuba in the list of State sponsors of terrorism compiled by the United States as nothing other than an inhumane act of aggression against a sovereign State. We believe fully that in an era of profound transformation to establish multilateralism and greater international cooperation, which are the basis for global sustainable development, there can be no place for unilateral sanctions measures. Belarus and Cuba, being friendly States, will continue to cooperate in the interests of the peoples of both countries, advancing economic and social development. We call for the full and unconditional lifting of the economic, financial and commercial blockade against Cuba imposed by the United States, and for the United States to resume dialogue to rekindle the once-started process to normalize relations with Havana for the benefit of the peoples of both States. Belarus will continue to vote in support of the annual resolution until the blockade is lifted.

At the outset, Trinidad and Tobago aligns itself with the statements made, respectively, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States and the Caribbean Community. We welcome the presence of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. Consistent with the Charter of the United Nations and international law, Trinidad and Tobago subscribes fully to the fundamental principles of the sovereign equality of States and non-intervention in their internal affairs. By any measure, therefore, discriminatory international trade practices and the extraterritorial application of domestic laws constitute a stark contradiction to these very principles and an affront to international law. It is therefore our obligation, as a small island developing State in the Caribbean, a responsible Member State of the United Nations and a resolute advocate for the rule of law, to reiterate yet again our objection to the application of unilateral coercive economic measures as a means of political and economic coercion against other States. Such practices undermine global solidarity, threaten multilateralism and frustrate sustainable development. Since 1972, Trinidad and Tobago has enjoyed a strong tradition of warm, cordial and mutually productive relations with the Republic of Cuba, and we value this relationship, just as we do with any other State in our hemisphere and elsewhere. We therefore stand in full solidarity with the Government and the people of Cuba, who for more than six decades have been the object of an unjust embargo inflicting much pain and suffering on the Cuban people. For more than six decades, that interventionist policy strategy has hindered — and continues to hinder — the full enjoyment of human rights by the Cuban people, especially the right to development, and severely undermines their prospects for attaining economic stability and growth. The economic, commercial and financial embargo unjustly and unlawfully imposed upon Cuba, as a sovereign State, must therefore be brought to a halt, and all measures must be implemented to ensure that country’s full reintegration into the international economic and political system. In this context, we have consistently supported — and will continue to support — regional and international efforts to promote good-faith, constructive dialogues between the parties, with the objective of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo. We therefore urge the parties concerned to work to build a mature and open bilateral relationship based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. Additionally, we remain unconvinced of the designation of Cuba as a State sponsor of terrorism and call for the removal of this baseless categorization, which is responsible for the imposition of incalculable costs and negative consequences for the Cuban people and economy. Trinidad and Tobago looks forward to the day when the Cuban people will be allowed to live without externally driven and politically determined shortages of food, medicines, fuel, transport and other basic services and there will be no need for the General Assembly to adopt a resolution condemning the unlawful embargo against Cuba. However, until then, Trinidad and Tobago does not countenance that there will be any variation to its unwavering support for the resolution on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo by the United States of America against Cuba.

Saint Lucia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the Group of 77 and China. Saint Lucia warmly welcomes the presence of the Foreign Minister of Cuba and his delegation. Saint Lucia reaffirms its sacred commitment to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The principles of the sovereign equality of States, non-intervention and non-interference in the internal affairs of States, as well as the peaceful coexistence among nations, remain the tenets of this institution. In essence, we, the peoples of the United Nations, committed to living as good neighbours. Saint Lucia joins the great majority of the membership of the United Nations and reiterates its support for the draft resolution (A/79/L.6), which continues to call for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. The application of unilateral measures applied in an extraterritorial manner is counter to the spirit of the Charter of the United Nations. Such measures are adverse to the right to development, as recognized by the General Assembly in numerous resolutions. And the deleterious effects and impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights of the society, in particular the day-to-day lives of the people of Cuba cannot be overstated. The long- standing 62-year-old unlawful economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba has been out of step with the principles for far too long. Saint Lucia’s continued apprehension over the continuation of the embargo against our fellow Caribbean State was most recently echoed by the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, when they expressed grave concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation resulting from the embargo wrongfully imposed on the people of Cuba. The impact of the embargo is wide-ranging. It affects and restricts access to foreign currency, inputs, raw materials, fuels, machinery, fertilizers, chemical products and technologies and imposes penalties on shipping companies that would otherwise service Cuba. The consequences are real and far- reaching, including the reduction in food production. The recent collapse of Cuba’s national grid highlights the impact that these limitations have on the effective functioning of the country. Cuba is no less impacted by climate change. As a fellow small island developing State, Saint Lucia is well aware of the ongoing impact of storms and hurricanes. We can only imagine the compounded complexities of the recent passage of Hurricane Oscar on the lives of the people of Cuba. The CARICOM Heads of Government have agreed to provide material support to assist Cuba in the recovery phase, just as Cuba has assisted us in the past, in the health sector, the education sector and so much more. It is our humanitarian duty to respond when one of our Caribbean family requires it. Saint Lucia echoes CARICOM in considering the United States State Department’s ongoing inclusion of Cuba on its list of State sponsors of terrorism as wrong and offensive. We join the call for Cuba to be removed from the list of countries deemed to be State sponsors of terrorism. Leaving no one behind is what gives meaning to our 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The unselfish assistance of Cuba, through cooperation and direct support to the Caribbean and the wider world, demonstrates its own commitment to advancing our agenda for development. Cuba has been a good neighbour. We, in turn, must embrace Cuba and truly leave no one behind. Saint Lucia expresses the hope that the present draft resolution on this question will be respected, and the will of the overwhelming majority of the nations of the world and the indomitable spirit of the Cuban people remain an inspiration. We reaffirm our sincere call to end this embargo. Saint Lucia joins in expressing its full solidarity with the Government and people of Cuba.

Malaysia aligns itself with the statements delivered by the representatives of Singapore on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Cameroon on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Uganda on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. I would also like to join others in welcoming the Foreign Minister of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla. Malaysia strongly opposes the imposition of unilateral coercive measures against any country, including Cuba. Malaysia views such measures as contrary to international law, international humanitarian law, the Charter of the United Nations and the norms and principles of peaceful relations among States. Malaysia also believes that such unilateral coercive measures have severely restricted Cuba’s ability to improve its economy and provide the necessary basic needs for its people. The economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba for the past 62 years has taken a toll on the country and its people. Between March 2023 and February 2024, the blockade incurred more than $5 billion in losses for Cuba, which have risen year after year. Owing to its constraining nature, on top of the losses, the embargo is affecting the acquisition of essential goods such as food, medical supplies and fuels; the acquisition of other necessities such as parts and equipment needed for the transportation system, the communication system, building infrastructure or farming; and also the acquisition of important services from outside of the country. These shortages and restrictions have further impacted the lives and well-being of the Cuban people. The adverse impact of the embargo is unfortunately further compounded by the inclusion by the United States of Cuba on the list of State sponsors of terrorism. It is evident that there is an urgent need to remove the unilateral coercive measures imposed by the United States on Cuba. Year after year, the resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba” has been adopted by the General Assembly with an overwhelming majority, and last year, on 2 November 2023, the resolution (resolution 78/7) was supported by 187 Member States. There must be a reason for this. Malaysia has always, and will continue to, support this resolution, which calls on the United States to end its unilateral economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba, immediately and unconditionally. Malaysia calls for the return of the rights of the Cuban people, the rights to food, to health, to education and to development. We call for their equitable rights to a better future. Malaysia also calls for the immediate removal of Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism. We call for the United States and Cuba to resolve their differences through peaceful means and to avoid any actions that could be detrimental to regional peace and stability. Malaysia encourages both the United States and Cuba to immediately normalize ties and pursue renewed economic engagement.

Cambodia associates itself with the statements delivered by Singapore on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and Uganda on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. It has been three decades since the draft resolution was introduced in the General Assembly. In every session, it gained overwhelming support because we believe in, and are committed to, the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, international law, multilateralism, free trade regulations and other internationally accepted norms. We believe that they serve as the bedrock of a just and equitable global order, peace, stability, security and development for all to share. My delegation also joined other representatives in expressing gratitude to the Secretary-General for his report (A/79/80), which reflects the consistent and overwhelming support of all Member States for the “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”. My delegation wishes to reaffirm Cambodia’s support for this spirit in calling for an end to the unjust embargo on the people of Cuba. There is no doubt that the imposition of unilateral sanctions, embargoes or other coercive economic measures goes against the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which we have all committed to upholding. The same goes for the extraterritorial extension of unilateral coercive measures against third countries. They constitute actions that contravene the principles of equal mutual respect for the sovereignty of States, independence, non-interference in the internal affairs of other States, and equal rights to socioeconomic development. The United States unilateral imposition of the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba has adverse impacts on the lives and livelihoods of the Cuban people, depriving them of the means to full enjoyment of their fundamental human rights and freedom of want. Cambodia is of the view that the blockade over the past six decades does not benefit anyone. The unjust and discriminatory policy has not only caused hardship for the Cuban people but is also contrary to our commitment to leave no one behind in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals. By lifting the embargo, the United States will contribute positively to the global effort to create a more just, sustainable and peaceful world for all. Cambodia notes with concern any additional measures imposed on Cuba, including the list of States sponsoring terrorism, which aim to tighten the blockade and have only exacerbated relations. We thus call for the removal of Cuba from the list of States sponsoring terrorism in order to create a conducive environment for renewed negotiation and enhanced dialogue, which remain important steps to alleviate restrictions and normalize the relations of both countries. The Pact for the Future (resolution 79/1) provides clear actions to accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, leaving no one behind. The entire population of Cuba is still deprived of their right to development by an embargo imposed on them for decades by the United States. We must take bold action in this endeavour. In closing, Cambodia remains consistent in joining with the international community to stand in solidarity with the people and Government of Cuba, by voting in favour of draft resolution A/79/L.6. My delegation calls on the United States to immediately lift its unjust blockade on the people of Cuba to allow them to positively and fully contribute to peace, security and international development.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries and the Group of African States. I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report (A/79/80). Unilateral coercive measures are unjustifiable and violate the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law. The fact that Cuba has been subjected to a unilateral economic and financial embargo has brought heavy tolls on its people and posed a pressing challenge on the Government in its efforts to achieve sustainable development, particularly the 2030 Agenda. These measures continue to impede the progress of the Cuban economy, creating obstacles to taking part in international trade and finance. The strain on the economy is further exacerbated by other severe global development challenges, such as the effects of climate change. What is more concerning is the fact that the embargo remains unchanged. For more than three decades, the international community has been calling for an end to the economic and financial embargo on Cuba. Each year, we see overwhelming support for the people and the Government of Cuba, with the majority of Member States reaffirming the urgent need to lift the embargo. Ethiopia has been consistently echoing this call for the lifting of the embargo imposed on Cuba and reiterates its position that the embargo should quickly be terminated. We also hold the strong view that the necessary support and cooperation should be provided to Cuba to enable the country to overcome its development challenges. This, coupled with the lifting of the embargo, would help Cuba to unlock its full potential and expedite its march towards sustainable growth and development. Ethiopia encourages open and constructive dialogue to bridge differences, normalize relations and take steps in lifting the embargo. In closing, Ethiopia wishes to reiterate the call by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union for the lifting of the unjustifiable economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed on Cuba.

I wish to begin by recognizing and welcoming the presence of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, and to convey the warm wishes of friendship and solidarity of the South African people to him and the people of Cuba. The South African delegation aligns itself with the statement made by the representative of Chad on behalf of the African Group, the representative of Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and the representative of Uganda on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries. In adopting resolution 78/7, entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, on 2 November 2023, 187 States, including South Africa, voted in favour of the resolution put forward each year against the United States embargo. South Africa is steadfast in its unwavering support, together with the majority of the international community, in voting in favour of lifting the United States embargo. The United States designation of Cuba as a State sponsor of terrorism and the enforcement of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act further entrench this embargo. South Africa also stands steadfast in its support for the removal of Cuba from the list of countries designated by the United States as a State sponsor of terrorism. South Africa is extremely concerned by the damaging impact that the United States’ economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba has on the livelihoods of the Cuban people, especially the poor and vulnerable. South Africa reiterates its unwavering call to the United States to remove this unjust burden of sanctions and opt for constructive dialogue with Cuba and not to inflict further harm on vulnerable Cuban citizens. South Africa’s trade with Cuba is hampered by the United States embargo and the extraterritorial application of the sanctions on third countries. The United States embargo raises the legal, economic, financial and commercial risks of doing business with Cuba. Its extraterritorial application remains a major constraint to the strengthening of bilateral trade relations. The embargo remains a major impediment for South African companies in conducting business with Cuba. Nevertheless, relations between South Africa and Cuba continue to serve as an exemplary model of South-South cooperation. South Africa has strengthened its bilateral cooperation programmes with Cuba, as well as pursuing new areas of cooperation, such as infrastructure development, agriculture, education, and science and innovation. The United States embargo is the most significant obstacle for Cuba in its quest to realize its development objectives, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The shortages of all basic products exacerbated by the United States embargo has resulted in near hyperinflation levels, especially in the food sector, where scarcity is driving prices outside of the reach of most Cubans, and particularly those who cannot rely on remittance payments. Large-scale fuel price increases in Cuba further contribute to food and other price increases, which amplify the harm inflicted by the United States embargo on the Cuban population. The Cuban Government relies on tourism and the provision of professional skills as key drivers of the economy. Cuba deploys many doctors as part of exchange programmes, and it has an emerging pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. The United States embargo, however, continues to prevent the full potential of these sectors from being exploited, leading to hundreds of millions of dollars in potential revenue losses. South Africa commends the countries that have taken measures to mitigate the specific effects of the Helms-Burton Act and requests third-party countries to support Cuba and its people by scrapping any domestic laws or regulations that continue to hamper the development of Cuba and its people. The same appeal is made towards removing Cuba from the United States list designating the country as a State sponsor of terrorism. The implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development remains at risk when the embargo prevents a Member State from fairly participating in its own socioeconomic development. My delegation will therefore vote in favour of the draft resolution before us (A/79/L.6), as it has done before. In closing, South Africa appeals once again to the international community to renew its efforts to promote constructive and transparent dialogue between Cuba and the United States, both bilaterally and through the appropriate United Nations structures, with a view to achieving the objectives of all the resolutions already adopted by the United Nations in this regard and to ensuring the sustainable further progress of the people of Cuba.

China associates itself with the statements made by the representative of Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China and by the representative of Eritrea on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. In today’s world, characterized by upheaval, frequent wars and development imbalances, developing countries are facing great difficulties in implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. At the recent general debate of the General Assembly and the Summit of the Future, leaders called on the international community to work together to address the current crisis and challenges and to build a future of shared prosperity. However, the United States and a few other Western countries are still pursuing unilateralism, protectionism and bullying. They resort to an abusive use of illegal unilateral sanctions against countries such as Cuba, which gravely violate the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, seriously undermining the international consensus on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and jeopardizing the rights to survival and development of the countries concerned and their people. Such conduct runs counter to the true spirit of multilateralism and is incompatible with the trend of the times, namely, peaceful development and win-win cooperation. Facts have proved that sanctions and embargoes cannot crush the people of other countries, and containment and suppression cannot solve one’s own predicament. For 31 consecutive years, since 1992, the General Assembly has adopted, by an overwhelming majority, a resolution on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. It urges all States to comply with the Charter of the United Nations and the norms of international law, and repeal or invalidate all laws and measures of any kind with extraterritorial effects that affect the sovereignty of other States, the legitimate interests of entities or persons under their jurisdiction and the freedom of trade and navigation. This is a just call from the international community that must be effectively implemented immediately. It is outrageous that the United States, instead of ending its sanctions against Cuba, has doubled down by placing Cuba on the list of State sponsors of terrorism. The embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba for over six decades has caused the latter hundreds of billions of dollars in damage and triggered a serious humanitarian disaster. Such hegemonic acts will certainly be condemned with one voice by the international community. China has always practiced genuine multilateralism, firmly upholding international justice and supporting countries in choosing their own path of development in line with their national conditions. We unequivocally oppose hegemonism and power politics. China once again strongly urges the United States, in accordance with the purposes and principles of the Charter and the basic norms of international law, to immediately and fully lift the blockade and sanctions on Cuba and remove Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism. China and Cuba are good friends, good comrades and good brothers. China highly appreciates the efforts of Cuba to maintain a just and reasonable international order and promote global solidarity and cooperation. We feel for the Cuban people’s difficult circumstances. We will continue to help Cuba to the best of our ability. China will firmly support the Government and the people of Cuba to overcome their difficulties at an early date so as to realize the development and revitalization of their country. China will therefore once again vote in favour of draft resolution A/79/L.6, submitted by Cuba under this agenda item.

Guyana aligns itself with the statements delivered, respectively, by the representatives of Grenada, on behalf of the Caribbean Community; Honduras, on behalf of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States; Iraq, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China; and Uganda, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries; relating to the necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba. The unjust economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba has now been in place for over 62 years. For over six decades, the people of Cuba have had to contend with a burden that has placed extraordinary roadblocks and hardships along their path to development. It is undeniable that the overwhelming majority of the Member States of the United Nations have long recognized the need for this policy to come to an end. This is demonstrated by the consistent votes in favour of the related resolution: 187 at the most recent vote (see A/78/PV.26). Indeed, the cold war has ended, and the policy prescriptions of that era must end as well. Today Guyana once more reaffirms its position in favour of the resolution calling for the lifting of the embargo. This is both consistent with our support for Cuba’s right to fully pursue its economic development and with our opposition to the imposition of unilateral coercive measures. The recent collapse of Cuba’s electricity grid is a demonstration of the negative consequences of such measures affecting an entire population. We also reiterate our call for the United States to remove Cuba from its list of State sponsors of terrorism. This designation is defined as applying to those countries that have “repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism”. Despite Cuba’s continuous designation on this list, there is yet to be a presentation of one iota of evidence that substantiates such a serious accusation. On the contrary, we have countless examples of Cuba’s tangible and positive support for other States, even as Cuba continues to face deeply trying situations. This wrongful designation as a State sponsor of terrorism has compounded the already devastating impacts of the embargo, adding to the list of economic and financial restrictions that are imposed on Cuba. The country’s ability to meet the needs of its population is further inhibited as it, like the rest of the world, strives to recover from the serious economic challenges created by the coronavirus disease pandemic. I am compelled to take this opportunity to speak on the decades-long outstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between Cuba and my country. Cuba has been a critical partner in Guyana’s pursuit of development. The robust health sector that we have been able to build would not have been achievable without the training provided by Cuba to hundreds of Guyanese doctors. Cuba’s world-renowned medical excellence is worthy of applause, more so considering the assistance it provides to countries developing their health architecture, even as Cuba continues to face significant hardships brought about by the embargo. In closing, the ending of the embargo against Cuba and the restoration of trust and rebuilding of friendly relations between Cuba and the United States will redound to the benefit of the Caribbean and the hemisphere as a whole. It will also positively respond to the repeated calls by the overwhelming majority of the Assembly and signify that we are all committed to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and to truly leaving no one behind. Guyana is committed to playing its part in this effort.

My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered, respectively, by the representatives of Uganda, on behalf of the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries; Iraq, on behalf of the Group of 77 and China; and Eritrea, on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. We wish to make the following additional remarks in our national capacity. First and foremost, we wish to welcome His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Cuba. We reiterate our country’s steadfast and continuous support for the leadership of the friendly country of Cuba and its people. We support its steadfastness in the face of the unjust and illegal United States embargo that has been imposed since 1962. We appreciate Cuba’s position of support for my country in the face of what it has been enduring in the form of terrorist war, illegitimate foreign presence, repeated Israeli assaults and unilateral coercive measures. We stress our full commitment and support for United Nations resolutions calling for the immediate lifting of the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed against Cuba. This unjust embargo is a flagrant violation of the tenets of international law and of relevant instruments relating to human rights and international legitimacy resolutions. We will continue to vote in favour of the annual resolution submitted to us, based on our conviction in the just nature of the Cuban position and the injustice and unacceptable collective punishment being waged against the friendly Cuban people. Every year, the General Assembly renews its call on successive United States Administrations to lift the unjust embargo against Cuba, to reverse its destructive policies of imposing unilateral illegal sanctions against Cuba and to cease attempts to isolate Cuba, destroy its national economy and deprive it of basic needs, first and foremost, fuel provisions. This is done by intimidating Governments, banking institutions, commercial enterprises and freight businesses, inter alia, by targeting all sources of national revenue, including tourism. The periodic reports of the Secretary-General and the reports that the Cuban delegation has been circulating to Member States constitute irrefutable evidence of the suffering endured by the Cuban people as a consequence of the coercive measures that have been imposed for several decades. The numbers reflect the degree of damage endured by Cuba and the losses incurred daily as a consequence of the stifling illegal embargo. These are damages that cannot be accepted to continue against people who have always stood by and defended international law, the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the values of rightness, justice and equality. The people of Cuba have always responded to calls for humanitarian and medical assistance in all parts of the world. Cuba served as an example of solidarity for all States during the coronavirus disease pandemic and in its fight against natural disasters that several of our countries have faced, including my country, Syria. We stress that the United States embargo imposed against Cuba is a gross, flagrant and systematic violation of the human rights of the Cuban people, including their right to development. This embargo has been — and remains — the main obstacle to progress at the economic level and obstructs the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Worse still, the United States Administration has not only imposed this inhumane illegal blockade but has also inscribed Cuba on the list of what it has unjustly called the list of State sponsors of terrorism. The list, in itself, reflects the United States Administration’s violation of international law, the principle of the sovereign equality among States and the principle of friendly relations and cooperation among countries. The list needs to be revoked immediately and unconditionally. The Syrian Arab Republic is experiencing a situation that is similar to that of Cuba and a number of other countries. We have been targeted, to this very day, by numerous coercive unilateral measures imposed — illegally and unilaterally — by the United States of America and the European Union. This is outside of the framework of the United Nations and international legitimacy. This represents an economic terrorism that compounds the terrorism that continues to be practised by organizations such as Da’esh and the Nusrah Front and their associated entities against my country. This terrorism afflicts the daily lives of all Syrian people, depriving them of their basic needs, and constraints the ability of the Syrian Government to deliver services and support to improve living and humanitarian conditions, to increase the rates of return of displaced persons and to deal with the needs of people arriving from neighbouring countries as a result of the current conditions. We call once again for the immediate, unconditional and complete lifting of the unilateral coercive measures against all countries enduring these measures and an end to the policy of imposing them on peoples of the world. We also call for removing the obstacles that these measures pose to the enjoyment of human rights, including the right to economic development and social prosperity. The Syrian Arab Republic supports our brothers and sisters in Cuba. We support their struggle against this inhumane embargo imposed by the United States of America. We call for more international efforts in order to uphold the principles of the Charter and put an end to the policies of isolation and the collective punishment of peoples. There is a need to respect the sovereignty of States and the will of their peoples, without interference in their domestic affairs, as well as to refrain from attempts to change legitimate regimes by force and to apply political and economic pressure.

Zimbabwe aligns itself with the statements delivered, respectively, on behalf of the Group of African States, the Movement of Non-Aligned Countries, the Group of 77 and China and the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. For decades the Assembly has repeatedly expressed its concern over the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba. Despite overwhelming support for lifting the blockade, the embargo remains in place, and its adverse effects continue to harm the people of Cuba. The continued existence of this embargo is a stark reminder of the long-standing and unjustifiable nature of unilateral coercive measures imposed on targeted countries, denying them their right to self- determination and development. Zimbabwe, a country similarly affected by such unilateral coercive measures, fully understands the plight of our Cuban brothers and sisters. These measures, often imposed without legal justification and outside the multilateral framework, inflict undue suffering on the most vulnerable members of society and obstruct economic and social progress. In 2023, the Assembly once again took decisive action on this annual resolution, with a total of 187 Member States voting in favour of ending the embargo, with only two voting against and one abstention (see A/78/PV.26). This was a powerful and resounding message from the international community, reaffirming the call for an immediate end to the embargo. The overwhelming support for the resolution demonstrates the global consensus that this embargo is not only outdated but also inhumane. We recall the modifications made by the United States Government in 2015 and 2017, signalling a potential thaw in United States-Cuba relations. However, we regret the reversal of these measures since 2017, which has served only to reinforce the embargo’s harsh effects on the Cuban people. Zimbabwe reiterates its call for all Member States to refrain from enacting and enforcing such restrictive laws and measures. These actions are in clear violation of the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and international law, which emphasize respect for sovereignty and the peaceful settlement of disputes. Those who impose the embargo have often claimed that it is in support of the Cuban people’s pursuit of human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, the reality is that the embargo itself undermines these very principles. By imposing severe restrictions on Cuba’s access to essential goods, medical supplies and financial services, the embargo exacerbates the suffering of the Cuban people and limits their economic, social and cultural rights. Zimbabwe therefore urges the United States to review its policy of sanctions and to lift the embargo in its entirety. Doing so would demonstrate a genuine commitment to human rights and allow the Cuban people the freedom to shape their own destiny, free from external pressures and constraints. Furthermore, Zimbabwe deplores the unjustified placement of Cuba on the list of State sponsors of terrorism. This designation disregards Cuba’s consistent dedication to peace and global solidarity, as seen through its humanitarian support in health, education and disaster relief worldwide. This unwarranted labelling unfairly restricts Cuba’s economic opportunities, hurting its people and undermining the principles of fairness and sovereignty. Zimbabwe calls on the international community not to take cognizance of this categorization, but instead to recognize Cuba’s positive contributions to global peace and development. Zimbabwe stands in full solidarity with the people of Cuba and calls for an end to the embargo without further delay. We remain steadfast in our belief that only through multilateralism, mutual respect and adherence to international law can we achieve a world where all countries are free to pursue their development paths in peace.

We have heard the last speaker in the debate on this item for this meeting. We shall hear the remaining speakers tomorrow, 30 October, at 10 a.m. here in the Hall. The General Assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of agenda item 38.