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Agenda item 39: “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo Imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”

Wednesday, 06 November 2019
Presenter: 
H.E. Ms. Kira Christianne D. Azucena Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations
Location: 
General Assembly Hall, UNHQ

 

Mr. President,

For the 28th year, we witness today a clear expression of the Member States’ solidarity with the Cuban people through an overwhelming support for the resolution to “end the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba.”

From 59 votes in favor in 1992, to 173 in 2002, to 188 in 2012, and 189 in 2018, the international community demands an end to the 57-year long embargo, an unjust and unjustified economic sanctions policy.

It is also the 28th year that the Philippines has supported this resolution and the 18th year that the ASEAN Member States have voted collectively and unanimously to lift the embargo.

Mr. President,

The restoration of diplomatic relations between the United Nations and Cuba in 2015 marked a watershed moment in international relations.

The extra-territorial nature of the blockade, however, continues to intensify. It has been reported that, at current prices, damages to Cuba’s economy during almost six decades of implementing this policy have reached USD138.84 billion; over USD4 billion in 2018 alone.

Mr. President,

The blockade presents a main obstacle for Cuba’s socio-economic development.

It poses a serious challenge for Cuba’s implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

It violates international law.

It is contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.

Mr. President,

With cultural and economic ties dating as far back as the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade in the early 16th century, Cuba and its people will always have the unwavering support of the Philippines in their legitimate claim to pursue their own sovereign path to peace and development.

The United States must lift the embargo against Cuba unilaterally, unconditionally, once and for all.

Thank you, Mr. President.  END