During the online debate, in which 28 Foreign Ministers from the 33 countries of the region participated, Cuba’s Foreign Minister condemned the brutal tightening of the U.S. blockade imposed on our nation, a genocidal policy that makes access to medicines and equipment vital for the fight against the new coronavirus more difficult and expensive.

He reiterated Cuba’s full support to the World Health Organization (WHO), recognizing its efforts in the COVID-19 battle, and emphasizing the value of international solidarity and cooperation as the only way to face the current crisis. In this regard, he highlighted the work of 28 brigades of Cuban health professionals supporting 24 nations in combating the pandemic.

Rodriguez denounced the technical problems faced by the Cuban delegation which made participation in the videoconference difficult, given the use of the U.S. digital platform Zoom, to which Cuba has been denied access on equal terms, due to the unfair regulations of the U.S. blockade, a policy that violates our country’s right to intervene in international online forums and the principle of sovereign equality of states mandated by international law.

In another tweet, the Foreign Minister reported the imposition of new unilateral coercive measures by the United States against Cuba in the midst of the pandemic: “I strongly reject the sanctions announced by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo against seven entities in Cuba, designed to affect Cuban families. It is shameful and criminal to tighten the blockade during COVID-19.”

According to information from the U.S. State Department, the Cuban entities sanctioned are: Financiera Cimex S.A. (Fincimex), three hotels, two diving centers and a marine park.

(Source: Minrex)

He also reported that the General Assembly sessions this year will be focused on the post-2015 development agenda, and are taking place within the context of the United Nations’ 70th anniversary.

On another issue, Rodríguez described Pope Francis’ visit to Cuba as an “extraordinary event,” emphasizing, “Cuba will welcome Francis with respect and solidarity.”

He highlighted the role played by the Pontiff in the process of reestablishing diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States.

During the press conference, which took place at the Foreign Ministry, Rodríguez referred to the report Cuba has prepared on the need to end the blockade, to be submitted to the international community, at the UN General Assembly, October 27.

Rodríguez, said that the report this year includes two new paragraphs hailing the reestablishment of bilateral relations with the United States, and acknowledging President Barack Obama’s willingness to work for the elimination of the blockade.

Nevertheless, he noted, the hostile policy remains in place, a violation of the civil rights of both Cubans and U.S. citizens.

Rodríguez denounced the current campaign against Venezuela, a part of a crusade against progressive and left governments which have made progress in asserting their sovereignty, emphasizing that Cuba categorically rejects interference in the internal affairs of Venezuela.

(Granma)