Explanation of Vote by H.E. Jayantha Jayasuriya, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations following the Vote on Item 38: Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba

Madam President,

Sri Lanka aligns itself with the statements delivered by Uganda on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and Iraq on behalf of the Group 77 and China, and wishes to make the following remarks in its national capacity.

Sri Lanka remains deeply concerned by the continued imposition of unilateral coercive measures (UCMs) against Cuba for over six decades, which run counter to the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the norms of international law. It is evident that the unilateral actions imposed on Cuba had negative consequences for the well-being of the civilians and for the economic and social development of the country.
In this context, Sri Lanka voted in favour of the resolution A/80/L titled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”, along with ………countries.

Madam President,

Sri Lanka is concerned by the barriers created by this embargo, particularly in the area of procurement of medical supplies, vaccines, and essential equipment, especially during health emergencies. The humanitarian consequences of such restrictions are unacceptable. Access to healthcare must not be politicized or constrained by extraterritorial economic measures.
We also noted the impacts of the embargo on the food and agriculture sector in Cuba. The economic sanctions on Cuba prevent its acquisition of fertilizers, machinery, fuel, and advanced technology, resulting in a significant decrease in food production. Such obstructions to progress in the agriculture sector in Cuba have a direct impact on its efforts to reach food security in the country. Unfortunately, the most vulnerable segment in these situations is women and children. At a time when the world is collectively taking action to end global hunger, we should not use sanctions to promote hunger in another country.

Madam President,

We believe the time has come to lift this embargo. There is no doubt that this embargo hinders Cuba’s pathway to sustainable development and violates fundamental human rights of Cuban citizens. The blockade had incurred billions of losses to the Cuban economy. Regardless of the intention of the embargo, the reality is clear: it is ordinary citizens who suffer the most.
Therefore, Cubans should get equal opportunities as people in other nations. Their right to health, right to food, and right to education have to be respected. Free flow of trade should be allowed. Humanity over hatred should prevail.

Sri Lanka has continuously supported the adoption of this resolution over the years. We reiterated that obligations set forth in the UN Charter should be addressed with urgency.

Thank you.