The United Nations General Assembly has once again called for an end to the decades-long United States embargo against Cuba, adopting a resolution with 130 votes in favour, 17 against and 25 abstentions.
The resolution, adopted on Wednesday, marks the 34th consecutive year the Assembly has voted to demand an end to the economic, commercial and financial restrictions imposed on the Caribbean nation.
It expresses concern over the impact of US laws, including the 1996 Helms-Burton Act, which extends certain effects of the embargo to foreign companies trading with Cuba. The resolution urges all countries to refrain from implementing measures that infringe on the sovereignty of other states and restrict international trade and navigation.
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During two days of debate, several countries and regional groups criticised the embargo, citing its effects on Cuba’s economy, access to essential goods and prospects for sustainable development.
Singapore, speaking on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, raised concerns about Cuba’s worsening socio-economic conditions, including shortages of essential medicines and declining food production.
Eritrea, representing the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations, described the restrictions as a prolonged violation of international law, while Uganda, speaking for the Non-Aligned Movement, criticised the measures as a form of collective punishment.
Namibia, representing the African Group, reaffirmed Africa’s longstanding opposition to the embargo, noting that the African Union had renewed its call for its removal for the 17th consecutive year. Uruguay, speaking on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, also warned that restrictions on trade, investment and financial transactions involving third countries were undermining Cuba’s development.
The debate was marked by a heated exchange between US Permanent Representative to the United Nations Mike Waltz and members of the Cuban delegation on Tuesday. Tensions escalated after Waltz presented photographs alleging corruption in Cuba, prompting objections from Cuban representatives, including Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez. The Assembly president briefly suspended proceedings before the debate resumed.
Introducing the resolution, Rodriguez rejected the US position and argued that the embargo posed a greater threat than Cuba itself.
The United States first introduced trade restrictions against Cuba in 1960, following the 1959 Cuban Revolution, before imposing a broader economic, commercial and financial embargo in 1962. The Helms-Burton Act, enacted in 1996, further strengthened the policy by extending its potential impact to foreign businesses dealing with Cuba.
Despite repeated calls by the General Assembly to lift the restrictions, the US embargo remains in place, with the administration of President Donald Trump intensifying pressure on the Cuban government.
Xinhua
