Calling the U.S. blockade against Cuba a violation of both the United Nations Charter and International Law and applauding Cuba’s human development achievements for its people, the region and the world, 188 of 193 member states of the UN General Assembly voted on Oct. 28, for the 23rd consecutive year, to demand that the U.S. lift its blockade against the Caribbean island-nation. Only the U.S. and Israel voted counter to Cuba’s resolution, with three nations abstaining.
Speaking for CARICOM, the representative from Barbados affirmed that organization’s unstinting solidarity with Cuba and lauded the Spanish-speaking Caribbean island as a regional partner, citing Cuba’s many generous acts of solidarity in the Caribbean, despite the severe economic hardship created by the blockade.
Barbados, Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela were among the countries endorsing the position of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) presented by the Costa Rican representative, condemning the blockade as inconsistent with the principle of sovereignty of states.
Many specifically cited the U.S. policy’s extraterritorial nature as a violation of the principles of multilateralism and non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations or their free trade with global partners.
Representatives of the Non-Aligned Movement, the G77 + China, CELAC, the African Union, CARICOM, Mercosur, the Organization of Islamic Countries and the Small Island & Developing States were among the 24 speakers in favor of the Cuban resolution.
The U.S. was the sole voice in opposition to the resolution and the expressed will of the overwhelming majority of the world. Despite 23 UN General Assembly votes to end the blockade, the U.S. to date has not heeded the UN decision.
Cuban Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, extended Cuba’s hand to the U.S., stating, “We invite the government of the United States to establish a mutually respectful relation, based on reciprocity, sovereign equality, the principles of International Law and the UN Charter. We can try to find a solution to our differences through a respectful dialogue and cooperation in areas of common interest.”
