General Assembly: 27th plenary meeting, 81st session

Good morning to all of you. The 27th plenary meeting of the General Assembly is called to order. The Assembly will begin its consideration of agenda item 37. entitled "Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America against Cuba." The documentation under this item is listed in the Journal of the United Nations. Before proceeding further, It has been proposed that the time limits for statements in this debate be five minutes for individual delegations speaking in their national capacity, and seven minutes for statements made on behalf of groups of states. The delegation of Cuba has informed the President of its objection to this proposal. Accordingly, no speaking time limit will be applied to the debate on this item. Nonetheless, delegations are encouraged to keep their statements brief, taking into account the suggested time limit. And I thank in advance those who would voluntarily observe this time limit. Furthermore, I intend to ensure the smooth proceeding of this meeting, and I seek your help in this regard. I appeal to Member States to conform to the practice of the United Nations whereby debates are conducted in a respectful and smooth manner. In this connection, I wish to remind delegations that there will be an opportunity to exercise the right of reply at the end of the day, pursuant to the Rules of Procedure. Also, I request delegations not to interrupt, not to interrupt speakers. If the floor is requested on a point of order in the middle of a statement, I should like to request that the delegation making the ongoing statement be allowed to conclude before I give the floor to the other delegation on a point of order. In accordance with rule 71 of the Rules of Procedure, a representative rising to a point of order may not speak on the substance of the matter under discussion. I thank you for your understanding of Rule 71 and for your cooperation. I now invite the distinguished representative of Singapore to speak on behalf of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ASEAN. You have the floor.

Mr. President, I am honored to address the General Assembly today on behalf of the Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN, comprising Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, my own country, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam to express our support for the draft resolution contained in document A/81/L5 on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against the Republic of Cuba. The ASEAN Member States acknowledge and welcome His Excellency Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, the Foreign Minister of Cuba, for his presence and for his update on the latest developments in Cuba. ASEAN also aligns itself with the statements to be delivered later by Uganda on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China. Mr. President, since 1992, the General Assembly has consistently adopted this resolution by an overwhelming majority. The strong support of the UN membership for this resolution for over three decades reflects the international community's steadfast commitment to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, namely sovereign equality, non-interference, non-intervention, and the peaceful settlement of disputes to preserve international peace security, and justice. ASEAN has taken a consistent position in calling for the lifting of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba as soon as possible. We reiterate our firm conviction that differences between states should be resolved through meaningful dialogue and engagement, rather than confrontation or isolation. This is the foundation of the multilateral, rules-based system, which all States have an interest and a duty to uphold. The latest report of the Secretary-General, A/81/76, paints a troubling picture of the worsening socio-economic situation in Cuba. The restrictions from the embargo have compounded the difficulties facing key sectors of the Cuban economy and has impacted the country's economic and social development. ASEAN is particularly concerned about the impact of the embargo on the Cuban people, especially their access to food, medicines, and other essential supplies. Cuba's health system faces shortages of over 60% of essential medicines, while food production has declined by more than 50% over the past five years. The restrictions on fuel exports to Cuba have also aggravated the country’s ongoing energy crisis. The shortages have disrupted essential services, including health care, education, water supplies, food distribution, and transportation. As of March 2026, almost 100,000 surgeries had not yet been performed nationwide, including more than 11,000 procedures for children. The Secretary-General’s report also documented delays in delivering humanitarian assistance following Hurricane Melissa, due to fuel shortages. These add to the daily hardships faced by ordinary Cubans. Mr. President, it has been 34 years since this General Assembly first adopted this resolution. ASEAN joins the other members of this Assembly in reiterating our call for the United States to lift its unilateral economic commercial and financial embargo against Cuba as soon as possible, and to de-list Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. ASEAN calls on both sides to engage in an open and constructive dialogue that is underpinned by mutual respect and common interests. I thank you very much, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Singapore who spoke on behalf of ASEAN, I now like to propose that the list of speakers for this debate, for the debate on this item be closed in view of the large number of delegations inscribed on the list. Unless I hear any objection, I would take it that the Assembly agrees to close the list of speakers. I see no objection, and it is so decided. I would now like to invite the distinguished representative of Uganda to speak on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. You have the floor.

Mr. President, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the 120 member states of the Non-Aligned Movement. during the plenary meeting under agenda item 37, entitled "Necessity of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba." I would like to acknowledge the presence of H.E. Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba. We are also grateful to the Secretary-General of the United Nations, for presenting the report on this important issue as contained in document A/81/76. The General Assembly has expressed its overwhelming support for the solidarity with the people and Government of Cuba through its principled position in favor of the lifting of the embargo imposed against this sovereign country by the United States of America. Last October, The overwhelming majority of Member States of this organization voted in favor of resolution A/RES/80/4. Regrettably, despite this clear and repeated mandate of the General Assembly, the non-aligned movement has viewed the strengthening of the embargo against Cuba in recent months as a serious setback to the process of normalizing bilateral relations between the two countries. Mr. President, the Non-Aligned Movement expresses its deep concern regarding the measures announced by the Government of the United States this year, which tighten to unprecedented and extreme levels the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed against the Republic of Cuba including actions aimed at obstructing the supply of oil to the country, sanctioning third states that maintain legitimate commercial relations with Chuba, and the implementation of secondary sanctions against companies, banks, and foreign entities, even if their businesses in the United States are not related to Chuba. Such measures, which multiply the extraterritorial effects of the blockade, adversely impact not only Chuba and its people, but also third states and international economic relations, and constitute a flagrant violation of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, international law, the multilateral trading system, as well as the norms and principles governing friendly relations among states. The Non-Aligned Movement is deeply concerned about the significant and growing humanitarian harm and enormous damage caused by the latest unilateral coercive measures against the Cuban people. which constitute a form of collective punishment, as well as their devastating effects on all critical sectors of the Cuban economy, including public health, education system, electricity supply, nutrition, agriculture, trade, and the daily lives of the Cuban citizens. The recent disruption of fuel supplies to Cuba has generated serious consequences for electricity generation and the functioning of essential public services, Prolonged power outages have affected hospitals, schools, water distribution systems, and food preservation facilities. Public transportation services have experienced significant disruption, while agriculture production and food distribution networks have been severely impacted. Alarmingly, Chiba has received only one oil tanker during the last 10 months. In this period, More than 40 foreign banks have refused to conduct businesses with Tuba, while over 140 international bank transfers have been blocked, including many related payments for the acquisition of solar and wind energy technologies. The humanitarian consequences are particularly evident in the health sector. More than 100,000 patients are currently awaiting surgical procedures that have been postponed, including approximately 12,000 children. At the same time, United Nations agencies in Cuba have reported that more than 2,900 metric tons of already contracted humanitarian food shipments have been affected by disruptions in maritime services to Cuba. The Non-Aligned Movement is grievously concerned by these developments. Mr. President, the Movement once again reiterates its call to the Government of the United States of America to put an end to economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba that constitutes the major impediment for its full development, and eliminates additional unilateral measures imposed since 2017, including the unilateral and arbitrary designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, which strengthened the embargo and caused huge material losses and economic damage to the Cuban people. The Non-Aligned Movement, while acknowledging that Cuba poses no threat, to international peace and security underscores the positive contribution of Cuban International Medical Cooperation and solidarity to saving lives in millions of people in the world. And its efforts promote international and regional peace, guided by the Banda principles, particularly the respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations and refraining from acts or threats of aggression or the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any country, the Non-Aligned Movement urges the General Assembly, as the most representative body of the United Nations, to mobilize efforts to prevent the military aggression against Cuba, a founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement, and preserve peace. In this regard, and in line with the principles enshrined in the Declaration on the Purpose and Principles and Role of the Non-Aligned Movement in the Present International Junction adopted in the 14th NAM Summit in Havana, reiterated that all countries must refrain from exerting pressure or coercion on other countries, including resorting to aggression or other acts involving the use of direct or indirect force, and application and/or promotion of any coercive unilateral measure that goes against international law or is in any way incompatible with it. for the purpose of coercing any other state to subordinate its sovereign rights or to gain any benefit whatsoever. Mr. President, as I conclude, the Non-Aligned Movement, while reiterating its commitment to the promotion, preservation, and strengthening of multilateralism, reaffirms that the full respect of the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, particularly those referring to sovereign equality, non-interference, prohibition of the threat or use of force, and non-intervention, is critical for the effective maintenance of international peace and security. Therefore, the international community must continue working together on the reversal and elimination of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States of America against Cuba, given in the earlier, it is illegal character and its extraterritorial implication, and to avoid any further escalation against the sovereignty, territorial integrity, political independence, and self-determination. of the Republic of Choba. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uganda. And now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay, who will speak on behalf of Group of 77 and China. You have the floor.

I thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Group of 77 and China on agenda item 37, entitled Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba. I would like to thank the Secretary General for his comprehensive report on the item we are discussing today, A/81/76. The group regrets that the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba for more than six decades remains in full application and continues to be enforced. We regret the measures undertaken recently and during the current year aimed at reinforcing the embargo on Cuba, which represents the main obstacle to the process of achieving normalized relations between the two countries. The direct and indirect damage is enormous. It affects all the critical sectors of the Cuban economy, including energy, public health, nutrition, and agriculture, as well as trade, investment, tourism, and banking. We are deeply concerned about the widening of the extraterritorial nature of the embargo on Cuba, notably through the full implementation of Title III of the Helms-Burton Act. The application of this law is a clear transgression to the freedom of commerce among nations because of its intimidating purpose by punishing any trade or investment transactions between any given country and Cuba. The persecution of Cuban financial transactions in third country jurisdictions, which has had a significant deterrent effect in economic terms, has continued. The limited foreign investment and difficulty of access to development credits translate directly into economic hardship and humanitarian suffering for the people of Cuba. As a result of these unilateral measures, it will be impossible for Cuba to successfully embark on the path towards sustainable development envisaged in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to which all Member States have pledged support. Regarding the announcement by the Government of the United States of new measures further tightening the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed against the Republic of Cuba, including actions aimed at obstructing the supply of oil to the country and the imposition of sanctions on third states that engage in legitimate commercial relations with Cuba, which have clear extraterritorial effects, The group stresses that these measures are contrary to the purpose and principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law, and undermine multilateralism, international economic cooperation, and the rules-based, non-discriminatory, open, fair, and equitable multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization at its core. At the same time, they aggravate Cuba's difficulties to carry out financial and commercial operations, threatening the livelihood and integrity of the Cuban population. The Group of 77 and China is deeply concerned about the severe humanitarian and development consequences that restrictions affecting access to energy supplies have on Cuba currently. Energy shortages and disruptions in fuel supplies are undermining electricity generation and the provision of essential public services, affecting hospitals, schools, water and sanitation systems, public transportation, food production and distribution networks, and other critical infrastructure. The group is also concerned that financial restrictions and obstacles to international banking transactions are hindered They have hindered the acquisition of renewable energy technologies, humanitarian supplies, and other goods essential for the people of Cuba at this difficult juncture. In the same vein, we urge the immediate removal of Cuba from the U.S. Department of State list of countries that are allegedly sponsors of terrorism. Cuba is a long-standing active member, partner of members of the group in promoting South-South cooperation. Thanks to the efforts made by Cuba, many countries within the group have developed their scientific and technical potential. All we know about Cuba is friendship and solidarity. We know nothing about terrorism. The inclusion of Cuba in this list does not represent only a reputational damage, but is also among the core elements in the reinforcement of the embargo. Because of this categorization, it has been extremely difficult for Cuba to engage in international banking operations. regardless of whether it is the case of state, private companies, or private entrepreneurs, which sets extremely harmful conditions for the development and well-being of the Cuban population. The group recognizes the long-standing and positive contribution of the Cuban International Medical Cooperation and Solidarity in saving the lives of millions of people around the world, particularly but not exclusively in developing countries. Cuba has extensively and consistently contributed to the international community for many decades. Its assistance to other countries has been a great example of South-South cooperation. The group therefore rejects any unilateral coercive measures that are not in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations, or attempts to hinder this international medical cooperation and solidarity for political or any other reasons. Mr. President, in this context, the Group reiterates that there can be no sustainable development without peace and no peace without sustainable development. We continue to be guided by all the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter and by full respect for the principles of international law, particularly regarding the sovereign equality of States, non-intervention and non-interference in States' internal affairs, and freedom of international trade and navigation. We recall the States shall refrain in international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State, or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations. The group emphasizes that these principles must be fully respected and stresses the need to refrain from any action inconsistent with the Charter that could aggravate tensions or jeopardize the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Cuba. In this regard, the group calls for all differences to be addressed through peaceful means and dialogue, in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. We believe that it is the duty and responsibility of every member state to strictly comply with those principles, and that any policy or action that disregards them should be immediately repealed. The urgency and necessity of lifting the blockade is ever clearer, especially considering that this is the 34th occasion on which the General Assembly will adopt a resolution to call for its end. The Group therefore calls for the immediate, complete, and unconditional lifting of the embargo. including all measures with extraterritorial effects. Ending these restrictions is essential not only for Cuba's development and the well-being of its people, but also for upholding the Charter, international law, and the credibility of multilateralism. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay. I now call upon the representative of Namibia, who will be speaking on behalf of the African Group.

Thank you, Mr. President. I have the honor to speak on behalf of the African Group. The group aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China and the Non-Aligned Movement. For more than three decades, this Assembly has called by an overwhelming majority for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba. The African Group has joined that call every year. In July, the Assembly agreed to reopen this item in an additional debate, in recognition of how gravely the situation had deteriorated, and we return to it today with that concern undiminished. Mr. President, the past year has brought further hardships to the Cuban people. Cuba's latest report to the Secretary General describes damage to the economy on a scale not seen before, with the heaviest effects felt in the energy supply, health care, food production, and transport. Restrictions on fuel have led to prolonged power cuts across the island. In essential services, hospitals, among them, have struggled to function. The Secretary-General has voiced concern at the humanitarian situation, and the African Group shares it. The Group is also concerned at the extraterritorial reach of these measures. Banks and companies in third countries, African ones amongst them, face difficulties in conducting lawful trade and financial operations with Cuba. Such effects sit uneasy with the rules of international law that govern trade among states and with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which this Assembly has adopted. Master President, the position of Africa on this question is settled at the highest level. In February 2026, the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union renewed for the 17th consecutive year its call for the lifting of the embargo and again expressed concern at Cuba's inclusion on the list of states alleged to sponsor terrorism. The African Group supports the removal of Cuba from that list. Our solidarity rests on a long history. Cuba stood with the peoples of Southern Africa in their struggle for liberation, and contribution recalled that gratitude in the independence of Namibia and the end to apartheid. Cuban doctors worked side by side, worked beside West African health workers during the Ebola outbreak in 2014, and Cuban medical brigades and teachers continue to save across our continent, where many Africans have also been trained in Cuban universities. The African Group reaffirms its full respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of the Republic of Cuba in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. We believe that differences between States are best resolved through dialogue on the basis of sovereign equality and mutual respect, and we would welcome renewed engagement between Cuba and the United States of America to that end. Mr. President, the African Group will vote in favor of the draft resolution and encourages all members of this august House to do likewise. We call once more for the lifting of the embargo in its entirety, so that the people of Cuba may pursue their development in peace and dignity. The African Group will remain steadfast in its solidarity with the people and the Government of Cuba And I thank you on that, Mr. President. Now, Mr. President, allow me to deliver the following statement in my national capacity. Mr. President, Namibia welcomes the convening of this meeting and the opportunity to address an issue that has remained before this Assembly for far too long: the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed on the people of Cuba. Namibia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the African Group and the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as that of the Group of 77 and China. For decades, the Cuban people have endured devastating consequences of a policy that restricts their access to essential goods, constrains development, and imposes hardships on ordinary families. Namibia reaffirms its steadfast solidarity with the Government and the people of Cuba and calls for the immediate and unconditional lifting of the embargo and the termination of unilateral coercive measures against Cuba. This issue is not merely a matter of economic policy; it is a matter of human rights and dignity. Restrictions affecting medicines, medical equipment, fuel, and other essential supplies place an additional burden on the Cuban population. Namibia therefore calls for an end to the energy siege against Cuba and urges the removal from the unilateral list of States designated as sponsors of terrorism. Mr. President, the effects of unilateral coercive measures extend beyond countries targeted. They disrupt legitimate trade, restrict financial transactions, and adversely and unfairly affect third states, businesses, and individuals. These extraterritorial effects undermine international cooperation and create further obstacles to achieving the SDGs. More fundamentally, unilateral coercive measures are genocidal. They undermine unilateralism, disregard the sovereign equality of states, and the principles of the United Nations Charter. By replacing dialogue with pressure and cooperation with punishment, we weaken confidence in the international law system and the multilateral system. In this regard, Namibia welcomes the General Assembly's decision in June 2025 to designate the 4th of December as the International Day against Unilateral Coercive Measures, aimed to raise awareness of their humanitarian, economic, and social consequences, and to reaffirm the need for international relations grounded in international law. Mr. President, Cuba's painful experience demonstrates the human cost of prolonged economic isolation. Behind every disrupted shipment, delayed payment, and blocked transaction are people whose lives and livelihoods are affected. The consequences are felt by patients, families, and communities struggling to access essential goods and services. The Cuban people deserve to live in dignity and to pursue their development aspirations free from the burden of this prolonged blockade. Since 1992, this General Assembly has consistently called for an end to the embargo against Cuba. The continued disregard of these resolutions undermines the collective will of Member States and erodes the credibility of the United Nations. Namibia calls for the renewed international efforts to translate these resolutions into concrete action. Differences between States must be addressed through dialogue, diplomacy, and good faith engagement, not through measures that inflict hardships on ordinary people. Respect for sovereignty, independence, and non-interference must remain the foundation of international relations. Mr. President, this General Assembly cannot stand idle and watch the suffering of the people of Cuba indefinitely. For how long? This institution was created to address such injustices. and it behoves on all of us to respond to such injustices perpetuated in the eyes of the world. In conclusion, Mr. President, Namibia stands in solidarity with Cuba and calls for the United States to lift the embargo and engage Cuba in a meaningful bilateral dialogue based on mutual respect, and respect for the sovereignty and independence of Cuba. It is time to end this isolation and to choose cooperation over confrontation and solidarity over silence. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia. I now invite the distinguished representative of Eritrea to speak on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. You have the floor.

Mr. President, I have the honor to take the floor on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations. Throughout this year, The blockade against Cuba has been unprecedentedly tightened, which is having a severe humanitarian impact on the lives of the Cuban people. We call upon the international community to speak clearly in favour of peace, of respect for the principle of prohibition of the use or threat of use of force, and to reiterate the need to end immediately the blockade. This is one of the most serious, prolonged and systematic violations of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. It goes not only against the purpose and principles of the Organization, but also against international human rights law. More than 30 resolutions approved by this General Assembly have not been enough for the removal of the blockade. The message has been very clear: throughout three decades, the Cuban people have the right to build their own future, free from any kind of interferences or pressures. In line with our historic and principled position, we express our unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of the Republic of Cuba. We strongly condemn the adoption of additional measures aimed at further tightening the blockade through actions intended to obstruct the supply of oil to the country and curtail legitimate economic and commercial relations between Cuba and third States. Such actions, based on a narrative built upon falsehood, intended to present the Republic of Cuba as a threat that it does not represent, seeks to deliberately asphyxiate the Cuban economy and to inflict additional suffering on the Cuban people. These measures are clearly intended to aggravate in a deliberate manner the living conditions of the population and to deprive the Republic of Cuba of essential resources, including energy supplies, vital for economic activity and social well-being. We call for dialogue, restraint, and constructive engagement, as well as for refraining from measures that could further aggravate the humanitarian and economic situation of Cuban people and their livelihood, particularly as a result of additional measures with a negative impact on the energy security field. Cuba has reportedly received only one oil tanker during the last 10 months, contributing to a deep energy crisis that has affected the entire country, with 20 hours or more of power outages currently experienced by the population on certain days. The humanitarian impact on the health sector is particularly troubling. The Secretary-General's report indicates that survival rates among children diagnosed with cancer have declined from approximately 85% to 65%. Infant mortality has increased from approximately four deaths per 1,000 live births to 9.9 per 1,000 live births. In addition, the health system faces the challenge of ensuring essential services for 32 pregnant women, 30,000 children that need their vaccines on time, and 2,888 patients dependent on hemodialysis treatments, all of which require a stable supply of electricity. It is also concerning that more than 7,000 containers carrying food Resources for the energy matrix transformation program, supplies for drinking water provision, and vital medicines remain held at various Caribbean ports due to the deterrent effect of the measures currently in place, preventing their arrival in the country. The Group also denounces the campaign unleashed to discredit Cuban international medical cooperation and to exert pressure on recipient governments particularly on those from developing countries, thereby diminishing the commendable work undertaken by Cuban medical personnel in saving lives around the world, as demonstrated, among others, during the worst part of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, we express our deep appreciation, gratitude, and recognition to the Cuban health professionals who have provided high quality healthcare To millions of people around the world, the Group rejects any unilateral coercive measures or attempts to hinder this international medical cooperation. and solidarity for political or any other reasons. We also reiterate in this context the need to put an end to the politicization of the fight against terrorism and the establishment of false lists accusing developing States, including Cuba, of sponsoring terrorism, which is a practice entirely incompatible with international law that requires to be terminated. As noted in the report of the Secretary General, A/81/76, this designation has further aggravated the financial obstacle faced by Cuba, deterring foreign banks from processing payments and discouraging the shipment of goods to the country. Mr. President, the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the defense, preservation, and full implementation of the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations in their entirety and interconnectedness, including the sovereign equality of States, the prohibition of the threat or use of force, non-intervention in the internal affairs of States, the peaceful settlement of disputes, and the right to pursue self-determination. A small State such as Cuba cannot possibly constitute a threat to any other country, and has consistently advocated peaceful coexistence, sovereign equality, and dialogue among States. Threats against Cuba’s sovereignty, including statements suggesting the possibility of military action, raise serious questions under the Charter of the United Nations, including the principle of sovereign equality non-intervention, and the prohibition of the threat or use of force. In this regard, we caution against any adventurism aimed at fabricating pretext for intervention in the domestic affairs of the Republic of Cuba, or for the threat or use of force against the country, and highlight in this context the responsibility of the international community as a whole and the United Nations to unequivocally condemn such acts. Proceeding in that direction would entail extremely grave humanitarian consequences for its population and for the Latin American and Caribbean region, with a dangerous destabilizing effect, contrary to its status as a zone of peace. We further underscore that differences among States, regardless of their political, economic or social systems, must be addressed through dialogue, diplomacy and cooperation. in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations. The normalization of all these practices would only contribute to further undermining the integrity of the entire international legal order. A further element of concern has been the increasing use of judicial and political actions against senior Cuban leaders, which goes against the sovereign equality and self-determination under the UN Charter. Mr. President, year after year, the report of the Secretary-General presented to this body under this agenda item illustrates the negative impact caused by the blockade on the Cuban population. There are children and young people who suffer these impacts, mothers and the elderly who live in deprivation and are victims of a harmful blockade driven by political motivations. The Group of Friends in Defense of the Charter of the United Nations reiterate their unwavering solidarity with the people and government of the Republic of Cuba, and calls upon the international community to reiterate the call of the General Assembly of the United Nations to lift the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the government of the United States of America against the Republic of Cuba, to remove Cuba from the arbitrary and unilateral list of State sponsors of terrorism, to uphold international law, multilateralism, and the respect for the Charter of the United Nations in its entirety and interconnectedness, and finally, to support once again the draft resolution to be submitted by the Cuban delegation under this agenda item. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Eritrea. I now invite the distinguished representative of Indonesia to make a statement.

Thank you, Mr. President. Indonesia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of ASEAN, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Group of 77 and China. Mr. President, When this Assembly met in July, Indonesia expressed concern about the growing humanitarian pressures facing the Cuban people. We remain concerned about the difficulties they face in meeting their daily needs. The Secretary-General’s report A/81/76 describes how restrictions on financial transactions, procurement, and transport complicate the work of the United Nations agencies and their partners in Cuba. Suppliers and financial institutions have withdrawn from transactions, delayed payments, or imposed additional requirements, making assistance more costly and difficult to deliver. These constraints affect the ability of humanitarian partners to respond promptly, including when essential supplies are already available. They also limit Cuba's capacity to recover from disasters and prepare for further emergencies. Indonesia supports the efforts of the United Nations and its partners to address these needs. Humanitarian assistance must reach those who need in a timely manner, with particular attention to children, women, older persons, and people requiring continuing medical care. Mr. President, At a time of mounting global challenges, differences between states must be addressed through dialogue and negotiations, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. We need a renewed commitment to multilateralism and to the framework established by the Charter of the United Nations. No state should impose sanction on another through unilateral measures outside the sanctions framework of the Security Council. Indonesia reiterates its opposition to unilateral coercive measures, since such measures have no basis in international law. Our concern is with the use of unilateral restrictions and their consequences for civilians. Indonesia will continue to stand in solidarity with all nations in upholding international law, sovereign equality, and justice as we work towards peace, dignity, and prosperity for all. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Indonesia. I now invite the distinguished representative of the United States to make a statement.

Thank you, Mr. President. Colleagues, in 1979, then-President Reagan warned the Cuban people. He warned them. He said, quote, “There are supposedly communist, classless society will result in a sizable elite with many special privileges, and they have already emerged. The next year, he spoke directly to the Cuban people again, saying, since 1959, you have been called upon again and again and again to sacrifice, to make one sacrifice after another. And he asked the Cuban people for what? Colleagues, for 67 years, the Cuban regime has been telling the world that it has discovered some type of exception to that rule. But the reality is, when Fidel Castro seized power, He confiscated businesses, farms, factories, homes, and the savings of generations of hardworking Cubans, billions in wealth taken, stolen from the people in an instant. And then, when Castro sent thousands of gay people, Christians, Afro-Cubans, and others to concentration camps, It was the regime who stripped them of their property and profited from their forced labor. Ever since, Havana would have you believe everything in Cuba has just disappeared. Well, we know, we know where it went, and today we are here to share it to the world. I hope everyone, Mr. President, is listening to the delegation right now. Imagine what happens when someone asks questions. Imagine what happens when someone asks these questions in Havana, not in a room full of ambassadors and cameras. Imagine what happens to those people if this is the intimidation and disruption that we see.

Yes, I hear that a request for point of order has been made. In the beginning of this session, I requested that

Mr. Kenny, Mr. President, point of order.

Yes. I hear it.

We cannot tolerate these violations of the procedural rules of this General Assembly.

I request Your Excellency,

I know you don't like to hear this. This is America, my friend. This is the United Nations. This isn't your communist dictatorship. You cannot silence me, or you cannot silence my colleagues.

Mr. Minister, I hear you. At the beginning of this session, I very respectfully requested that the current speaker, whoever it be, be allowed to conclude before I give the floor to any delegation requesting for point of order. I fervently request you to kindly agree with my request, and you will have all the opportunity to speak once the current speaker ends his statement. Please allow the statement to be delivered, and I will give you the opportunity. Please help me in conducting the business in a smooth manner. And you'll have that right.

Mr. President, I listen your suggestion.

It's only a suggestion.

You are under the 71 rule of the rules of procedures of this General Assembly. Respectfully, I request that you fulfill this rule and rather immediately.

Just now, a point of order.

We see the rule and the practice of this General Assembly.

You couldn't violate that. Mr. President, Rule 71 is crystal clear. I'll read it for our colleagues here. It says, quote, "A representative rising to a point of order may not, may not speak on the substance of the matter." The reality is, he doesn't

like the substance of what he's hearing.

He doesn't like the hard truths. And you can come and intimidate all you want.

Excellences, I ask everybody I will ask you to

respectfully, Mr. President,

this individual needs to back away from this podium. He's not going to intimidate me in the United States of America like he tried to intimidate political prisoners.

I appeal to you to listen to me, and I'll ask everybody to go back to their delegation.

And I'm the representative of the United States of America. Back up.

Okay.

Back up. Ambassador, back away. This isn't Havana.

I'm suspending the meeting.

You're not going to intimidate me.

I'm suspending this meeting.

Do you understand who you're dealing with? This is America. Back up. The rule is clear. This is the substance of the speech. There are no procedural.

You can bring three people if you want.

The meeting is suspended. Please sit down. Sit down.

When I resume, when I resume the meeting, I listen to everybody. You see, I'm here to administer the rules of procedure in a fair manner and an independent manner. So please go back to your seat. And I made a request, with great respect to everybody, to allow a speaker to conclude the statement. But if you don't want to do that, if you insist on this, I'll give you on point 71, but that has to be restricted only to procedure. not substance.

Mr. President, it's a point of order.

Yes.

Respect Rule 71 and the practice of this General Assembly, and please grant me just now a point of order.

So I take it that you did not accept my request to allow the speaker to conclude. Am I correct in this understanding, Mr. Minister? If that is the case, I'll grant you this opportunity, but strictly on the condition that it is in accordance with Article 71. I resume the meeting, and I give the floor to the representative of Cuba to make a state to on a point of order in accordance with Rule 71 of Rules of Procedure. You have the floor.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. On the basis of Article 71 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly, I request you to call to order the Permanent Representative of the United States, who is not only lying grossly, but is beneath the dignity of this forum and Member States. He is offending the dignity of the people and government of Cuba. Mr. Wells is lying yet again, and I wish him a better future in other functions, but in the United Nations and in the Security Council, your performance is severely wanting. Please inform yourself much more. much better of the rules of procedure.

Issues of procedure, please, not substance. Okay. I thank the representative of Cuba for his statement on point of order, and your remarks, sir, will be reflected in the records of this meeting. I now request the representative of the United States to resume his statement. You have the floor, sir.

Thank you, Mr. President. Again, I hope everyone is listening. I hope everyone observed this today. This is in a room, in a free country, with cameras, with ambassadors, with diplomats. Imagine what happens if you dare to speak out under the iron fist of this regime. Imagine what happens when no one is looking. We recently had just released political prisoners here, and this delegation of supposed diplomats tried to intimidate them, film them, harass them. If this happens here, imagine what happens there. And thank you, Mr. President, for your objectivity. Just for my – for the record, Rule 71 is crystal clear, as I just tried to read. It says, quote, “A representative rising to a point of order as the Cuban delegation just attempted to do, may not, may not speak on the substance of the matter. I know that you don't like to hear these hard truths, but I am speaking for the Cuban people. And ever since 1959, this government in Havana would have you believe that everything in Cuba has just disappeared, that they're the victim, That is someone else's fault. Well, we know where all of those billions of the Cuban people's assets and wealth has gone. And we're going to show the world today, and all of you, as you consider this vote. Just over a year ago, brave investigative reporters from the Miami Herald got access to the secret financial records from the Cuban regime's own military conglomerate called Gaisa. They revealed billions in profits, billions in assets abroad, billions in cash, 18 billion, in fact. 14 billion in cash, to be exact. And for context, that's enough money to pay every single Cuban's salary for two years straight, or to stock every single Cuban pharmacy for over 40 years. That's enough to buy 2 billion gallons of gasoline, 900 million sacks of rice. Meanwhile, as the regime elites make billions more by shipping doctors and nurses against their will around the world, taking their wages, threatening their families if they refuse to comply. And now, the Castro family is doing it again, pocketing the wages of Cubans being sent to fight abroad. And all while humanitarian aid, food, and rice, and medicine arrive by the boatload from countries I will list for you today. It comes to Cuban ports, and very, very little, if anything, actually reaches the people. So shelves are still empty. Millions of Cubans are sitting in the dark. Hospitals may be advertised as free, but what they're free of is medicine. Fuel for everyday Cubans is as rare and expensive as caviar. And Havana comes to this assembly every year with the same explanation, that the money never existed. The medicine vanished. The fuel never came. Well, colleagues, I remember enough from high school physics to know that things don't just vanish. It was taken. Gaia's billions, the workers' stolen wages, the fuel, the medicine, the food. So today, I have one simple question for the world that you should all ask yourselves: Where did it all go? Well, we brought some photos to show where some of it went. Reagan's warning about corrupt Cuban elites still holds true, and it started many decades ago. Let's start with Castro's two Rolexes that he proudly wore. You're looking at the great revolutionary. What's on his wrist? Two Rolexes worth $40,000 in today's money, according to the regime's own statistics. That would pay for 55 years of an average Cuban wage. It didn't just start with Castro. This is the current Cuban president, also with a Rolex on.

I hear that the representative of Cuba has asked for a point of order. Please. Once again, I appeal that allow the speaker to finish, but if you insist on your point of order request, I will grant you that because I'm obligated to do that. But please stay true to the article 70, rule 71, only on procedure. Thank you. You have the floor.

On the basis of Article 71 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly and extended practice, I would like you to call to order the Permanent Representative of the United States for his offensive comments to the dignity of the Cuban Government and people.

Thank you for your point, which will be reflected in the record of our meeting. I request the distinguished representative of United States to continue.

Foreign Minister, here’s how this is going to work. Every time you interrupt me and my right to speak here to the world and show your corruption and malfeasance, every time you interrupt me, I'm just going to keep explaining how corrupt this regime is, and I'm going to do it a little more slowly. Next we have, again, the current president of Cuba, as the people are starving, wearing another luxury watch. Colleagues, somehow This, quote, unquote, blockade that does not exist, this embargo, I guess doesn't apply to luxury goods. Somehow those get through to the Cuban regime elites. I have more pictures. I have more pictures of the current president wearing Hermes ties, using Montblanc pens, jet set wardrobe that would make New York socialites blush. And he spends his days blaming capitalism for his country's misery, yet takes quite advantage of it. It's not just watches, colleagues, it's also a vast real estate empire. Let's take a look here. This is Nave Pilar, the Castro family's exclusive seaside retreat in Varadero. You can look this up, you can find this online, it's quite nice. It has 14,000 square meters of property, swimming pools, marble floors, a private dock, a gym, a sauna, jacuzzis. Let's keep going. This is the Castro family compound. This one has six bedrooms, a 20-meter swimming pool, a custom woodwork. Hear this for those who care about the environment, made from cedar imported from the Brazilian Amazon rainforest. But colleagues, Even 20 homes and all of these lavish compounds aren't enough. Why settle for mansions by the sea when you can have your own private island? That's right, the Castro family has their own private island, Cayo Piedra. Again, you can find this if you simply look for it, look beyond your talking points. Take a look at this place, private marina, a yacht, a floating restaurant, lavish guest accommodations, a swimming pool, even, even a lagoon for pet dolphins. It's right there on the other side of Cuba, on the south side of Cuba. They have another island, by the way, with exotic animals. Look it up. It has safaris. animals, excursions from all over the world. Somehow, as the Cuban people are sitting in the dark, all of these luxury homes have power. How is that? And why is that? But let's keep going with the, if you're wondering where all the money has gone, here's Fidel's grandson, Sandro Castro, holding up stacks of money on his own Instagram. And when the Castro family gets tired of flaunting its wealth at home, it takes the show on the road. Here is son Antonio vacationing in the Mediterranean. Looks quite comfortable. Maybe San Tropez, Southern France. Island hopping on a 50 meter luxury yacht. But when Turkish journalists tried to photograph great communist prince enjoying himself, his bodyguards attacked the journalists. What did he have to hide? Well, colleagues, if you have any idea, do you have any idea what it takes to fuel something like one of these yachts? How many homes, how many hospitals, how many schools that you have all lamented today can be fueled by the 50,000 gallons of fuel it takes to put in a yacht like this? 15,000 gallons just for one diesel tank. Somehow, colleagues, the regime can never find enough fuel for Cuban ambulances, they can never find enough fuel for Cuban buses, but when the Castro family, the elites that are sitting at that table, want to go yachting, suddenly It's no problem. Well, here is another one. Tony Castro. So this is the entire family, this kleptocracy. Fidel's grandson and Antonio's son. Quite a family tradition. The grandfather confiscates private property from the hardworking people. The father vacations aboard a superyacht, and the son does the exact same. Three generations of revolutionary sacrifice for all of you. And here's more of Tony's lifestyle, not only was he in Madrid, here he is, driving a BMW, a luxury car. Colleagues, of course there's nothing wrong with traveling the world, enjoying a beach, or driving a luxury car, unless your family has spent nearly seven decades denying those same opportunities to everyone else. So think about the hypocrisy. Millions of Cubans have risked their lives escaping that island, many on rafts across the Florida Straits, and ordinary Cubans have struggled to leave. The Castro grandchildren have been deciding where to spend their next European vacation, what luxury yacht to sail on, what private home, maybe a visit to the private island. That's the difficulty of their lives. Especially if you can enjoy Montblanc bags in the company of famous actresses like Diaz-Canel's stepson, Manuel Anito Cuesta. Or if you can travel on a diplomatic passport wherever you please, like Fidel's granddaughter, Vilma Rodriguez Castro. Here she is. She's enjoying one of her many trips abroad. to have taken her to Costa del Sol in Europe and all over Latin America, and here she is in a luxury hotel, colleagues. Colleagues, I could keep going all day long. More luxury homes, more designer accessories, more lavish vacations, but I hope you get the picture. The regime tells the world that Cuba has nothing, that everything has simply vanished. Yet the people running Cuba never seem to lack anything, do they? And remember, these aren't the descendants of hardworking Cuban entrepreneurs who built successful businesses and maybe passed it on. These are the descendants of the men who confiscated other people's property and businesses, the same people who told generations of Cubans that private wealth was immoral. Just last week, we hosted an event right here in the United Nations. We heard from experts whose investigations uncovered that the doctors and nurses in Cuba, the doctors and nurses that Cuba sends around the world, they don't get paid personally. The money goes to the regime. We also heard from José Daniel Ferrer, who spent years in Cuban prisons for standing up to the regime, for daring to speak out. You saw a taste of what that gets you today. We also heard from Luis Manuel Otero Alcantara, who spent five years behind bars. You know why? He wrote a song. He's an artist. He literally wrote a song that the regime did not like. So think about that. Today, colleagues, more than 800 political prisoners still languish in Cuban prisons. These are artists, they're priests, They're students, they're ordinary mothers and fathers, people whose only crime was demanding or even just hinting, even just singing about freedoms that many of us frankly take for granted here. And in Cuba, you can spend five years in prison for making art, but the grandchildren of the men who rule the country can flaunt stacks of cash on their social media pages while making AI videos mocking just released political prisoners. So, colleagues, those lucky enough to avoid prison obviously still live in prison-like conditions on that island with sky-high prices for everything and empty shelves. And those rarely in power, those rarely have power to even keep their refrigerators running or power their lights. But we saw who does have power: the elites. Don't take it from me. The Go look up Cuba Libre, the oppression that the Havana hides. Watch the testimony of these political prisoners. Watch this supposed delegation of diplomats try to film them, intimidate them, and harass them. And I just ask you, consider this. If the regime has nothing to hide, why did they do that? Right here in this very building. And today, trying to do the same thing, but it's not going to work with me. So I have one question for the Cuban delegation and for the regime: What are you so afraid of? What are you so afraid of? Colleagues, these thugs are asking for your vote. And they're asking for your vote.

The distinguished delegate of Cuba has asked for a floor for point of order. Please, Make your statement within the scope of rule 71.

Thank you, Mr. President. On the basis of rule 71 of the Rules of Procedure of the General Assembly and of long-established practice of this august event, I would like you to call to order the lying Permanent Representative of the United States, who is offending this delegation a delegation of a member state, and we thank you for all of that publicity about Cuban tourist destinations. Please allow U.S. citizens to travel freely to Cuba.

I have heard your statement. It will be reflected in the record of this meeting. I call upon all distinguished delegates to limit their point of order statements within the scope of Rule 71, please.

Here’s the lie, Mr. President. Here’s the lie that I ask you to all take a hard look. There is no blockade. A blockade is a ring of military ships. around an island. It doesn't exist. It does not exist. And if it did, let me ask you this. How in just the first eight months, eight months of this year, 2026, did American companies export more than 876 million in goods to Cuba? I'm from Florida, my friends. I see the ships leaving our ports, including, by the way, 230 million in fuel for eligible Cuban private businesses? How did the United States become Cuba's largest, single largest fuel supplier to its private sector, as small as it is, while Havana tells the world America won't let fuel in? That's the lie, Mr. President. Let me ask you this, colleagues, because many of you are here in the room. How have Belize, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Mexico, Russia, Spain, Uruguay, the European Union, CARICOM, and the UN and UN agencies themselves delivered shipments to Cuba in just the past few months if there’s a blockade not letting anything in or out. It’s a lie. That’s the lie. If we want to talk about points of order, Mr. President, colleagues, there is no blockade. So let me conclude from where I began. Things don’t just disappear. An entire country's wealth doesn't just vanish and evaporate. Its confiscated property didn't just go away. Its doctors' wages didn't just cease to exist. But we now know where it is. The billions documented in Gaese's secret financial accounts that have now been exposed to the world is where it is. That's where the Cubans' people wealth is sitting. Their wealth simply changed hands, from their hands as they starve to the elites as they live lives of luxury. So when Havana asks for your vote, I want you to remember what you've seen here today. This is on the record for all of history to see. My message to Havana is simple: free the prisoners. Stop exploiting your own people. Tell the Cuban people and the world where the money has gone. To my fellow ambassadors, do not hand Havana another propaganda victory. Don't lend your votes to the abuse of the Cuban people. And even now, the regime has resorted to a complete and utter lie that the United States is threatening countries with reprisals over their vote. They are threatening countries with reprisals over this vote. The bottom line is, they're just scared. And they're scared of the truth. Every year, this corrupt regime uses this vote and this body to then go back and lie to the Cuban people that the world is with them. You are participating in that. You are complicit. Colleagues, history is watching. Do not stand with this regime, vote no on this resolution, and stand with the Cuban people. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United States for her statement. I now invite the representative of Order in the balcony, please. I have an obligation to ensure that the debate goes on in a smooth way. Please respect the sanctity of this place. I now invite the distinguished representative of South Africa to speak, but before that, i want to assure the distinguished representative of Cuba that the remarks that you have made under Rule 71 will be reflected in the record of this meeting. The distinguished representative of South Africa.

Thank you very much for giving me the floor, Mr. President. South Africa aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Africa Group, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the G-77 and China, and would like to add the following in its national capacity. Mr. President, we convene today a little less than four months since we first met in this hall to debate today’s agenda item, titled “Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial, and Financial Embargo Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba.” Reconvening on the same agenda item again indicates that Instead of the situation improving, it has worsened as a result of additional restrictive measures imposed by the United States against Cuba. The Government of South Africa remains concerned about the enduring economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba. These unilateral Economic sanctions are the foremost impediment to Cuba's implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, including its socioeconomic and political aspirations. The embargo continues to exacerbate the socioeconomic hardships of the Cuban people, particularly its most vulnerable. The continued designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism by the United States together with the full application of the Helms-Burton Act, further hinders Cuba's economic, commercial, and financial relations with other countries. Since the application of the U.S. Executive Order 14380 in January this year, which imposed an oil and fuel blockade on Cuba, the effects of the embargo have become worse. In the last nine months, Cuba has received only one oil tanker, whose cargo of 100,000 tons of crude oil represents only a limited fraction of Cuba’s energy needs. This has led to further knock-on effects on Cuba’s economy, especially its national health priorities and operational capacities of its hospitals, affecting women, infants, and children the most. Mr. President, the prevailing situation in Cuba should concern us all, particularly from a humanitarian perspective, given the deteriorating socio-economic situation in the country and its impact on the health and livelihoods of the Cuban people. Consistent with the decision of this august Assembly against the embargo imposed against Cuba, We have a duty to send a strong message for an end to the human suffering that the Cuban people are enduring due to the embargo. To ameliorate the situation in Cuba, South Africa calls for the following: First, the resumption of stalled talks between Cuba and the United States; second, the termination of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo, including Executive Order 14380; third, the removal of Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism; and fourth, the suspension of the application of the Helms-Burton Act. In conclusion, South Africa reaffirms its enduring friendship and solidarity with Cuba and its steadfast commitment to multilateralism, international law, as well as the sovereign right of all nations to pursue their chosen path of development. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of South Africa. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nicaragua.

Thank you very much, Mr. President. On behalf of the people of Nicaragua that are So while we recognize the wise leadership of President Castro, we also salute the heroic people of Cuba, their historic leader, commander of the revolution and commander of the army, Raul Castro Ruz, President Miguel Diaz-Canel. and Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, Foreign Minister, we express our respect and recognition to you from our country, Nicaragua, always free. The peoples of the world, through the United Nations, I would state that there has been a brutal economic, financial, and commercial embargo over the last 70 years, an asphyxiation of the people of brotherly Cuba. We emphatically repeat our condemnation of this siege, which has broken all international rules and has become a permanent aggression against a brave, educated people that love peace. In condemning this flagrant injustice, we also condemn the inaction of international organizations, where the majority or virtually all peoples of world, peoples and governments of the world have rejected this situation and have called for an immediate cessation of this clear violation of all rights, and in particular, the human rights of the people of Cuba. Our declaration is based on the purposes and principles of all peoples and of humanity overall. These actions against Cuba are not only long standing, but they're increasing. This political terrorism does not recognize, is not recognizing international conventions, and it's also violating the express will ratified year on year of governments that defend for Cuba the right to life, to peace, and to ongoing economic, social, and scientific development in the face of great challenges, Cuba has been able to achieve and share solidarity. We are faithful to the people of Cuba. as represented in this resolution calling for an end to all forms of aggression and embargoes against Cuba, victorious and invincible. Once again, we call upon the United Nations to play its role, a role going back to its foundation, a role that has been hollowed out over time and through the unstoppable aggression of empire. The United Nations needs to be recreated and be in step with these developments. Cuba is free, and it will continue to be free. We are brothers in sovereignty, dignity, and peace. Cuba will continue to Cuba will continue to be successful. Managua, 26th of October. Thank you.

Distinguished representative of Nicaragua. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

Mr. President, the Russian Federation aligns itself with the statement made on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter. In our national capacity, we would like to note the following: Today, the international community is once again called upon to take a principled stance on a situation in which one State, being significantly more powerful, restricts financial, energy, food, and other supplies to another country, and moreover holds an entire people responsible for this, not just the elites, as we were told today, allegedly. For many years, the UN General Assembly has, by an overwhelming majority, spoken out in support of the island of freedom. We are aware that in the run-up to today's vote, many states have been subjected to serious external pressure. However, we are convinced that this cannot alter the international community's position. Mr. President, the illegitimate trade, economic, and financial embargo imposed on Cuba by the United States, which has lasted for nearly 70 years now, has reached an unprecedented scope. In the period from March 2025 to March 2026, the financial damage to the Republic alone amounted to 8.8 billion US dollars. The unprecedented intensification of economic and military pressure this year was further compounded by a fuel embargo. And all of this is being done to break the Cuban people. A crisis has unfolded in and around the country. Ships carrying energy resources vital to the island are being intercepted in neutral waters. Due to power outages, the population's access to drinking water and food is severely limited. Newborns and those with chronic illnesses are deprived of adequate and timely medical care. There is a shortage of medicines, and the transportation infrastructure has been paralyzed. More than 4 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. The United States simply cannot fail to realize the full depth of the humanitarian crisis into which it has plunged the island of freedom. U.S. restrictions on the Cuban banking sector hinder international transactions and the ability to attract foreign financing. U.S. extraterritorial sanctions cut off Cuba from modern mechanisms of mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation. thus also infringing upon the sovereignty of third countries that are developing their ties with Cuba. Such restrictions run counter to established rules of international trade and cause systemic damage to the entire global economy. The arsenal of tools that the U.S. uses to exert pressure on Cuba includes, in addition to economic asphyxiation, personal sanctions, threats of military intervention, psychological pressure, propaganda, and attempts at complete international isolation. The recent issuance by a Miami judge of an arrest warrant for Cuba's historic leader, Army General Raul Castro, on trumped up charges related to events that took place 30 years ago is completely reprehensible and worthy of condemnation, a political and legal assessment of the events of February 1996, for which the U.S. holds Raul Castro personally responsible are set forth in UN Security Council Resolution 1067 of July 26, 1996. That resolution contains no calls for measures to hold anyone personally accountable. This effectively signifies the Council’s, including the United States, agreement that in that regard the incident had been resolved. The aforementioned court ruling could be viewed perhaps merely as an expression of the sentiments of a certain group of individuals, had it not been for the events that took place earlier this year in Venezuela, whose leader was abducted in violation of all norms and principles of international law. All of the aforementioned constitutes glaring examples of how the frenzied pressure on Cuba has turned into outright neocolonial oppression. Its goal is clear to everyone: to drive Cuba to socioeconomic collapse and bring about a change of power in the country. It is categorically unacceptable to elevate the pernicious practice of punishing an entire people to the level of state policy, essentially punishing them only because the Cubans have made a sovereign choice regarding their own development. The statements made by the American establishment regarding the Cuban government's inability to cope with current domestic challenges border on outright cynicism. I dare you to name even one government that would be able to keep the country's socioeconomic situation afloat in a context where the country's sources of external financing and investment have been cut off. and you're deprived of vital resources, including access to energy resources, and food imports are barred. Colleagues, despite unprecedented pressure from Washington, Cuba continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to defending its sovereignty and independence, and consistently pursues an independent foreign policy. The Republic remains an active and respected participant in international relations. It faithfully fulfills its international obligations and contributes to conflict resolution and the facilitation of peaceful negotiations. The achievements of the Cuban people in the fields of health care, pharmaceuticals, education, and sports have received widespread international recognition. And here one cannot help but ask a simple question. What other heights could this country have reached? And what level of well-being could its citizens have enjoyed had its development not been deliberately obstructed from the outside for decades? How many opportunities were lost? How many promising initiatives were never realized because of artificially created barriers? Mr. President, we express our firm and unwavering solidarity with the courageous and indomitable people of the Republic of Cuba. Guided by the principles of the UN Charter regarding the admissibility of any forms of discrimination or interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states, Russia, together with the overwhelming majority of the international community, decisively condemns Washington’s unilateral restrictive measures against Havana. We demand the immediate, complete, and unconditional lifting of the economic, trade, and financial embargo against Cuba, an end to the practice of economic pressure and collective punishment of its people, as well as the removal of the Island of Freedom from the notorious U.S. list of so-called state sponsors of terrorism. We support the adoption of the resolution, and we call on all other delegations to do the same. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Angola.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Distinguished delegates, Angola thanks the President of the General Assembly for convening this debate and aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77 and China, and the African Group, and wishes to make the following additional remarks in its national capacity. We welcome the presence of His Excellency Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, and thank the Secretary-General for his report. For more than three decades, the General Assembly has consistently called for an end to the economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba. I am going to reiterate his principal support for this call, expressing deep concern about the embargo's humanitarian and socio-economic consequences, particularly its impact on access to essential goods, medicines, energy, technology, and development opportunities. These restrictions also undermine Cuba’s efforts to achieve sustainable development goals and constrain legitimate international trade and cooperation. Mr. President, Addressing the 81st session of the General Assembly in September 2026, His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola reaffirmed, and I quote: “Considering that the embargo is the main cause of the dire situation facing Cuba and its people, and that it is inhumane, unjust, and contrary to the principles and norms of international law, we once again call for the end to the embargo against Cuba.” End of quote. For Angola, This position also reflects a profound historical responsibility. We will always remember Cuba's contribution to the liberation of Southern Africa, particular developments leading to New York Accords in 22nd December, 1988, Namibia's independence, and the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa. We equally recognize Cuba's longstanding solidarity in health, education, and human development, which has benefited countless communities across Africa. Mr. President, while reaffirming our position to the embargo and the support for Cuba’s removal from the United States list of state sponsors of terrorism, Angola believes that the international community must move beyond the persistence of political differences towards practical solutions. Geographical proximity should become a bridge for cooperation, rather than a permanent source of confrontation. At a time of growing geopolitical tension, we need renewed political courage, diplomatic creativity, and responsible leadership to overcome long-standing disagreement between states. Dialogue is not a concession, and political compromise is not a sign of weakness. Both are essential instruments of diplomacy and peaceful coexistence. Angola therefore encouraged the United States and Cuba to renew direct and constructive political engagement aimed at progressively normalizing their bilateral relations. Such engagement should be guided by sovereign equality, mutual respect, noninterference, and recognition of legitimate national concerns. We encourage both countries to explore practical confidence-building measures, facilitate humanitarian access and legitimate commercial transactions, and identify opportunities for cooperation in public health, education, energy, disaster preparedness, and sustainable development. A sustained diplomatic process could progressively address outstanding differences, restore confidence, and establish a framework for mutual beneficial economic and people-to-people relations. Angola's own experience of peace and national reconciliation reinforce our conviction that even the most difficult disagreements can be overcome through dialogue, political compromise, and a shared commitment to a better future. Mr. President, our collective responsibility must extend beyond managing differences. We should create conditions to overcome them and transform political disagreements into opportunities for peace and cooperation. Angola reiterated its call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of the embargo and will vote in favor of the draft resolution. We encourage renewed diplomatic efforts towards peaceful coexistence and the progressive normalization of relations between Cuba and the United States. Let us replace confrontation with dialogue, isolation with engagement, and political mistrust with practical cooperation. This is the constructive, principled, and forward-looking multilateralism that Angola advocates firmly, anchored in the United Nations Charter and international law. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Angola. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste.

Mr. President, we thank you for convening this event. Timor-Leste aligns itself with the statements delivered by Singapore on behalf of ASEAN, by Uruguay on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, and by Uganda on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement. We would like to deliver the following remarks in our national capacity. Mr. President, Timor-Leste maintains warm and friendly relations with all countries around the world, including both the United States and Cuba. We appreciate our partnership with the United States and the many shared values and commitments that unite us. We equally cherish Cuba’s longstanding friendship and solidarity with Timor-Leste, including our cooperation in health, education, and human resource development. As a friend of both nations, Timor-Leste believes that differences between states, however complex should be addressed through dialogue, diplomacy, and constructive engagement. We understand that the United States has expressed its concerns regarding many issues. We acknowledge the importance of these issues and the value of continued dialogue and constructive engagement, guided by mutual respect and principles of the United Nations Charter. At the same time, we remain concerned about the serious humanitarian consequences of prolonged unilateral measures particularly the impact on the daily lives of ordinary people and their access to essential goods and opportunities. For Timor-Leste, respect for the sovereignty of states must go hand in hand with respect for the dignity, welfare, and aspirations of their peoples. In this regard, we believe that the humanitarian consequences of measures affecting civilian populations warrant careful reflection by the international community. We acknowledge the humanitarian assistance that have been provided to the Cuban people through international and faith-based organizations. At the same time, we are mindful that humanitarian assistance alone cannot fully offset the overwhelming economic and social hardship faced by ordinary Cuban families. Mr. President, Timor-Leste’s position is not directed against either country. Rather, it reflects our commitment to humanitarian principles respect for the Charter, and the conviction that political disagreements should not come at the expense of the well-being of ordinary people. For a country such as ours, whose own history has been shaped by international solidarity and the protection of human dignity, this remains a matter of principle: no family should bear the weight of political disputes beyond its control. In this spirit, Timor-Leste reaffirms its long-standing appeal and support for ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed against Cuba, grounded in the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and in our hope that dialogue, cooperation, and mutual understanding will prevail. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Timor-Leste. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Canada.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Canada's opposition to the embargo on Cuba is based on principles of international law and reflects our.

Long-standing objection to the extraterritorial application of laws by another country where such application adversely affects trade and commerce. On the other hand, Canada also has.

Serious concern with the fact that the Cuban government continues to severely restrict the political and economic.

Rights of its people, to detain hundreds of political prisoners, and to restrict peaceful debate and alternatives within the country.

These are major contributing factors to the humanitarian crisis that Cuba is facing.

Cuba is now at a crossroads.

Canada calls on the Cuban government to make the needed changes to respect the rights of its people and to open its economy to provide greater opportunities for future generations. By choosing genuine reform, Havana could deliver tangible benefits for Cubans' daily lives now and in future.

Canada's strong preference is for a peaceful, Cuban-led transition that respects international law, including the principle of state sovereignty.

Canada is committed to continuing to have an open and frank dialogue with Cuba's government, and we are willing to be a partner to Cuba in implementing these needed reforms.

Canada has provided significant humanitarian.

Support to Cuba this year to help address the lack of access to food, clean water, health care.

And other essential services.

As the context evolves, Canada remains committed to supporting Cuba's most vulnerable citizens.

Canada aspires to a future where the Cuban economy will be growing and benefit its entire population, when Cuba will be able to join the community of democratic American nations and make a meaningful contribution to the stability and prosperity of our hemisphere, thus creating greater possibilities for the Cuban people. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia.

Mr. President, thank you for convening this meeting. Malaysia aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of ASEAN, G77 and China, and the Non-Aligned Movement. Malaysia reaffirms its principled and strong opposition to the imposition of unilateral coercive measures against any country. These measures are inconsistent with international law, international humanitarian law, the United Nations Charter, and the norms and principles of peaceful relations among states. In particular, Malaysia remains deeply concerned by the continued tightening of restrictions on Cuba’s fuel supplies and financial transactions. These include secondary sanctions targeting third countries and entities maintaining legitimate economic relations with Cuba. Beyond the economic impact, the humanitarian consequences for the Cuban people are increasingly alarming. UNICEF and the World Food Programme reported that banking restrictions Procurement difficulties and limited shipping options had delayed the delivery of essential supplies to Cuba and increased operational costs of procuring, transporting supplies, and processing related payments. These constraints reduced the resources available to meet the needs of vulnerable communities in the country. Additionally, fuel shortages and power outages disrupt water distribution, food production, health care and sanitation. OCHA’s August 2026 monitoring report recorded water shortages affecting approximately 3.5 million people in Cuba, an increase from 2.1 million in April. For affected families, securing safe water and meeting everyday needs have become increasingly difficult. Mr. President, The disruption also extends to education. UNESCO reported that severe fuel shortages had constrained transportation for students and teachers, while power cuts lasting up to 20 hours a day had disrupted learning. Basic services at schools, including meals and water supplies, have also been affected. For children with disabilities, Shortages of assistive devices and reduced access to specialized school transportation create additional barriers to education. Healthcare services are also under severe strain. WHO reported difficulties obtaining medicines, medical equipment, and raw materials for pharmaceutical production. OCHA recorded more than 100,000 patients, including 11,000 children awaiting surgery postponed by power outages. Around 75% of essential medicines were in short supply, while refrigerated storage failures threatened vaccinations for some 70,000 children. These constraints undermined both the timely treatment of patients and the provision of preventive care. Mr. President, Consistent with its principled and long-standing position, Malaysia joins the international community in supporting the annual General Assembly resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba.” We reiterate our call for the immediate and unconditional lifting of the embargo, including measures with extraterritorial effects. Unilateral coercive measures must never be used as instruments to pursue political objectives. Ordinary people bear their burden through shortages of food, water and medicine, delayed treatment, and disrupted education. To this end, Malaysia urges the parties concerned to intensify diplomatic efforts towards the peaceful resolution of disputes through constructive dialogue and mutual respect. in full accordance with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Chile.

President, Excellencies, for For more than six decades, this Assembly has considered the situation of Cuba and its people. Cuba has participated in this debate and has been guided by the same principles that have guided its foreign policies under various governments: respect for international law, trust in multilateralism, and defending human rights. are principles that are not in opposition, they mutually sustain each other. Chile has an open economy integrated into the world, and it believes in free trade between nations as a driver of development and well-being. It also believes in an international order based on rules. The Charter of the United Nations only entrusts the Security Council with the responsibility of determining when and how the international community adopts coercive measures. And this is not just a technical arrangement, it serves as a guarantee that the decisions affecting entire peoples are adopted in a legitimate way. That is why Chile did not support does not support the unilateral economic, commercial, and financial measures. Let us not lose sight of the fact that broad-reaching measures of this kind end up impacting the most vulnerable segments of the civilian population. However, President, stopping there would be just a part of that story, whereas the story needs to be told in full. I believe that the difficulties that Cuban families currently face are not just explained by merely external factors. They also face restrictions on fundamental freedoms, participation in economic life, and full exercise of civil rights. Acknowledging this does not mean taking part in a dispute between states. It means looking reality straight in the face. All too often, This debate has been presented as a choice between two camps, where every nuance is interpreted as either loyalty or betraying one side or the other. We do not recognize such a logic. What is truly important is not these alignments of groups, the difference is important. The important distance is between those who defend human rights and those who do not respect it. And Chile knows full well which side we are on. We are convinced by national as well as global history that lasting solutions emerge when citizens are consulted and when they can freely express themselves regarding their own destiny. Raising one's voice for human rights in our hemisphere is not an act of hostility against any states. It is a commitment we all share, and this includes commitment to our universal charter. When concern over citizens' freedom is interpreted as an offense, then perhaps it would be more appropriate to look within one's own country rather than outside. And Chile accepts this kind of scrutiny towards itself. It does not demand of others what it does not demand of itself. President, there is a conviction that Pablo Neruda expressed very simply: They can cut all the flowers, but they cannot stop spring. And history, President, has taught us that aspirations for freedom may find obstacles, but they will ultimately bear fruit. Peoples have the right to decide on their own futures, and Chile will always be on the side of freedoms, human rights, and full respect, and I stress, full respect for international law. It is based on this dual conviction the Charter and commitment to human dignity that we approach the issue of this resolution. We believe that this Assembly can and must, rather than repeating the same exercise year after year, which does nothing to resolve tension, rather, the Assembly can and must contribute to making Cuba free of this embargo so that the Cuban people can live in well-being and have the opportunity to freely decide on their path. Thank you very much, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Chile. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus.

Mr. President, distinguished colleagues, the debate on the draft resolution “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba” and everything that accompanies this debate, has already become a tradition. In fact, one of those traditions about which people say we'd better if they didn't exist. It's a tradition we should all be ashamed of. For more than 60 years, right before our eyes, one sovereign state has sought to economically destroy another sovereign state. How many changes have taken place over the past 60 years? How many discoveries, tragedies? How many states have disappeared from the political map of the world, and how many new ones have emerged? Yet only one thing remains unchanged: Cuba is under embargo. Belarus’ position is well known, and it remains unchanged. The application of unilateral course of measures against sovereign states in violation of the UN Charter is unacceptable. This constitutes a flagrant violation of the fundamental principles of international law. It undermines the system of multilateralism and the foundations of civilized relations between nations. The ongoing trade, financial, economic, and now energy embargo of Cuba is an example of cynical disregard for the rules of conduct shared by all civilized states. The purpose of the embargo is well known. It consists of forcing a sovereign state whose people have independently achieved freedom and independence to change its internal political system, renounce the fundamental principles of its existence and its ideology, and ultimately sacrifice its freedom. Every possible means is being used to achieve this end, even going so far as to designate Cuba a sponsor of terrorism. Is this not a direct attempt at enslavement and colonization? Have we not returned to the 16th century and the days of witch hunts? We categorically reject such practices, and we believe it unacceptable in international relations. What’s more, the ongoing embargo of Cuba violates not only legal norms, but the principles of humanity and morality. The figures repeatedly presented by the Cuban delegation on rising infant mortality rates and the number of seriously ill people deprived of medical care speak louder than any passionate calls for respect for human rights. And such calls are sounding increasingly cynical against the backdrop of the consequences of collective punishment of an entire people and the use of starvation as a means of pressure against an entire people. Can any of today's speakers who oppose ending the pressure on Cuba answer the question, which human right, including the new, often artificially invented ones, is more important than the right to life, the very right which ordinary Cubans are currently being deprived of? We are convinced that no rhetoric can be built on the deaths of innocent people, including children, and that no state greatness can be achieved or affirmed through cruelty. Colleagues, today, we will once again vote on the draft resolution. The resolution will be adopted, and then what comes next? That is a rhetorical question. It is time to recognize that the fate of Cuba is also the fate of the UN. How our organization responds to the ongoing attempt to destroy a sovereign state will be the most eloquent indicator of the UN's effectiveness and viability. If everything ends up being limited to just as a resolution, as always, then that will demonstrate the true value of today's UN in practical terms: empty words and a simulation of vigorous activity. There are no reforms that could help such a UN. What we should fear is not a liquidity crisis. What we must fear is a crisis of confidence in the UN, which has already arrived, and Cuba is a striking example. Unfortunately, it is not the only one. Belarus has always defended and will continue to defend the right of every state to independently determine its own model of development. Economic and political coercion as a method of exerting pressure on sovereign states is completely at odds with the contemporary concept of civilized relations between states. We call for complete, unconditional, and irreversible lifting of the economic, financial, and commercial embargo against Cuba, where we sincerely hope for a constructive bilateral dialogue between the two countries in the spirit of mutual respect and peaceful resolution of differences. There is no alternative. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belarus. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe.

Thank you, Mr. President. Zimbabwe welcomes this debate, which casts a global spotlight on a matter of significant concern and demands our collective attention and resolve. We acknowledge the presence of His Excellency Minister Bruno Rodrigues Barilla. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the African Group, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Group of 77 and China. We add the following remarks in a national capacity. Mr. President, for over six decades, the people of Cuba have been subjected to a debilitating economic, financial, and commercial embargo, which has been compounded by a fuel and energy blockade. These sanctions are imposing severe economic strain on Cuba. They are restricting access to finance and remittances, and triggering serious shortages of essential goods and services. Prolonged power outages are further aggravating the situation, particularly in hospitals and other critical facilities. The sanctions are also undermining food security and constraining the ability of the Cuban Government to advance sustainable development. Behind these measures lie disrupted education, lost opportunities, and, tragically, lives lost. We are equally concerned by the extraterritorial effect of these measures and the potential impact on countries who are exercising their sovereign right to maintain relations with Cuba. The embargo runs counter to the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Coercive measures undermine the spirit of dialogue, mutual trust, and mutual understanding upon which peaceful relations among nations must be built. Equally concerning is the continued and unjustified inclusion of Cuba on the so-called list of state sponsors of terrorism, an action that has further curtailed the country's access to international financial systems and development programs. Mr. President, Zimbabwe knows firsthand the impact of sanctions on development and people's livelihoods. We also know that with such challenges comes resilience and the determination to move forward in spite of adversity. For more than 60 years, the people of Cuba have been resilient, and their country has played a key role in promoting political and socioeconomic development in the global south. Zimbabwe therefore reiterates the call for an immediate and unconditional lifting of the embargo and the removal of the blockade. Like any other sovereign state, Cuba must be given room to pursue its own development trajectory. and to engage constructively with all partners. We also call for the immediate removal of Cuba from the so-called list of state sponsors of terrorism, a designation that is both unjust and detrimental to international cooperation. My delegation reaffirms Zimbabwe's unwavering solidarity with the people of Cuba. We will continue to advocate for the respect for multilateralism, dialogue, mutual respect, in adherence to the Charter of the United Nations. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Zimbabwe. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lao People’s Democratic Republic.

Mr. President, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, My delegation aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China, ASEAN, and the Non-Aligned Movement, and would like to add the following in its national capacity: We welcome the presence of His Excellency Bruno Rodríguez Barilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba, at this meeting. Mr. President, the Lao PDR reiterates its long-standing position that unilateral coercive measures are contrary to the Charter of the United Nations and international law, hinder sustainable development, and impose undue hardship on innocent people. The embargo imposed against Cuba, which has remained in place for more than six decades, is in direct contradiction to the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. The embargo has inflicted severe socioeconomic consequences including food, energy, and medicine supplies, on the ordinary Cuban people and undermine their legitimate right to development, sovereignty, and national self-determination. The LOPDPR believes that no country should be denied the opportunity to chart its own development path free from external pressure or interference. The LOPDPR reiterates its unwavering solidarity with Cuba, and once again Join the international community in calling for the immediate lifting of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo, including logistics and energy blockades against Cuba, as well as for the removal of Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism, and for the ending of all unilateral coercive measures imposed against any sovereign states. In this regard, the Lapidar supports the adoption of the resolution under this agenda item, namely resolution A/81/L.5, on the necessity of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba as a resounding expression of the will of the international community to advance a peaceful, equitable, and just international order for all nations, including large and small. The Lao PDR firmly believes that dialogue and constructive engagement, grounded in sovereign equality and mutual respect, remain the only sustainable path to resolving differences peacefully. In conclusion, The LOPD-R calls on all Member States to renew our collective resolve to uphold the Charter of the United Nations, to redouble our efforts to foster an enabling environment for lasting peace and sustainable development, safeguard the sovereign rights of all nations, and to ensure that the people of Cuba, like all other peoples around the world, be given an opportunity to determine their own future in accordance with their aspirations. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Lao People’s Democratic Republic. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Gabon.

Mr. President, I would like to begin by aligning ourselves with the statements made by the African Group and the G77 and China. In our national capacity, we reaffirm our principled position on the issue that brings us together today. My country, notes, first of all, with deep concern the continuing deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Cuba resulting from the maintenance and tightening of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo that has been in place against this country for more than six decades. These restrictive measures are severely affecting essential sectors, in particular the energy sector, and are making daily life even more difficult for a population already suffering from recent adverse climate events and natural disasters. In this regard, Gabon expresses the hope that the humanitarian action plan for Cuba receives greater funding in light of the scale of the growing humanitarian needs we’re all well aware of. The Government of Cuba deserves our full support. Mr. President, Gabon’s position on Cuba stems, as you know, from a consistent diplomatic doctrine based on well-established core principles: first, respect for international law; the application of unilateral coercive measures directly contravenes the principles of sovereign equality of states, non-interference, and freedom of trade and international navigation, all of which are enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. Second, solidarity and humanitarian justice. The human impact of these sanctions is disproportionate. No population should face such major obstacles in accessing basic necessities or development, nor should be excluded from international financial mechanisms. We should also commend Cuba's historic and exemplary contribution to South-South cooperation, particularly through its international medical solidarity, which we're all familiar with and which has helped and saved millions of lives around the world. particularly in developing countries. My country, Gabon, is one of the beneficiaries of this. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, in light of these legal and moral imperatives, the Gabonese delegation reiterates here and today its solemn call for the complete and unconditional lifting of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed on the friendly, sisterly country of Cuba. Gabon expresses its sincerest hope that the Cuban people will soon be able to participate fully and freely in international trade in order to build a future of shared prosperity and dignity. Thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Gabon. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Islamic Republic of Iran.

In the name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful. Mr. President, I extend our warmest welcome to His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodriguez, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba. This is the 30th 34th time that this Assembly has reaffirmed its firm opposition to unrestrained unilateralism, reckless foreign policies, and unilateral coercive measures imposed by a government that places itself above international law while continuing to violate it systematically and in the most serious manner. Unilateral sanctions, including so-called Autonomous sanctions are rooted in unilateralism and coercion, and thus endanger multilateralism, destabilize international relations, and undermine the UN Charter and international law. As a tool of collective punishment against targeted nations, they violate fundamental human rights, obstruct peace, undermine the right to development, and impede the establishment of a just, peaceful, and equitable international order. Over six decades of unilateral sanctions and blockade by the U.S. against Cuba constitute flagrant coercion against a sovereign and independent state inflicting immense hardship on its people, undermining their fundamental human rights and obstructing their development. Its intensification under the cynical pretext of promoting democracy exposes the profound contradiction between its stated objectives and its devastating human consequences. It is weaponizing democracy, not promoting it. No government is allowed to dictate the political future on a sovereign state. By any standards, such policies and practices, including economic warfare, are unlawful, immoral, and inhuman. Therefore, not only must this decade-long, unlawful, and inhuman embargo be lifted immediately, but the Cuban people must also receive full reparation from the imposing State for all damages incurred. Additionally, all those responsible for perpetrating these policies must be held accountable. Mr. President, having itself endured acts of aggression and the consequences of economic coercion and blockade imposed by the U.S., the Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its unequivocal opposition to all sanctions against sovereign and independent states, including Cuba. Such sanctions harm ordinary people, especially women, children, and older persons, undermining their health, safety, and well-being, and creating serious barriers to development, which is essential to the full enjoyment of human rights. They seriously violate the human rights of an entire nation by weaponizing the human rights of that very nation. This is not defending human rights. It is blatant hypocrisy. This reminds us of so-called help that the U.S. President promised the Iranian people when he said, “Help is on its way.” A few days later, and on his order, the U.S. forces bombed a primary school in Minab, brutally killing 168 children between 7 and 12 years old. Mr. President, This Assembly must compel the U.S. to implement the dozens of resolutions adopted with the support of overwhelming majority of the international community, rejecting the embargo against Cuba and calling on the U.S. to end its economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba. We must neither overlook nor undermine the serious legal implication of unilateral coercive measures for the international legal order, particularly in the current turbulent economy international environment. The UN Charter is founded on sovereign equality, international cooperation, and the development of friendly relations among nations, as enshrined in Article 1 and 2 of the Charter. The UCMs violate all these principles, as well as the principle of non-intervention. While the Charter calls for international cooperation in solving global problems and promoting friendly relations among nations, UCMs instead foster confrontation, deepen divisions, and undermine the foundations of peaceful coexistence. In fact, sanctions are examples of economic terrorism, while blockades enforced by armed forces constitute acts of aggression under international law. Despite their different forms and degrees of severity, these measures share deeply troubling features. They undermine They undermine the sovereignty of states, inflict human suffering, and materially violate international law, consequently rendering them both unlawful and illegitimate. A policy that sacrifices the well-being of millions for political objectives cannot be reconciled with the principles of humanity, morality, or international solidarity. Mr. President, the Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms its unwavering solidarity with the government and resilient people of Cuba in their struggle against the embargo and other unjust coercive measures. We will continue to advocate for the elimination of unilateral coercive measures and urge this Assembly to intensify its efforts to bring these measures, including the embargo against Cuba, to an immediate end. The time has come to end these unlawful and inhuman practices. Their continuation is not only a failure of international responsibility, but also an unmistakable manifestation of human and moral bankruptcy. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Mr. President, Brazil endorses the position of Uruguay on behalf of the G-77 and China. Brazil's position in this matter is clear. During this year's general debate, President Lula condemned the economic embargo and energy blockade against Cuba as illegal and described their effects as collective punishment against 10 million people. The effects of these illegal measures are tangible. In June 2026, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights reported daily power outages frequently exceeding 20 hours. It also reported that the suspension of services by shipping companies had affected shipments of food intended for humanitarian assistance totaling more than 2,900 tons. The High Commissioner for Human Rights warned, and I quote: "Children are dying because doctors do not have access to medical supplies and essential medicines" and called for the immediate lifting of the sanctions. These findings concern hospital services, food distribution, and access to water. They cannot be reduced to an exchange of political accusations. United Nations assessments show that there are restrictions imposed by private companies that go beyond legal requirements, delaying procurement and disrupting humanitarian supply chains. In practice, authorization to deliver assistance does not necessarily mean that such assistance reaches those who need it. Mr. President, the resolution before us addresses the extraterritorial effects of national legislation on the sovereignty of third States and on the legitimate interests of their citizens and companies in light of the principles of sovereign equality, non-intervention, and freedom of trade and navigation. Brazil has also publicly opposed the inclusion of Cuba on the United States list of State sponsors of terrorism. Brazil will vote in favour of this resolution. The objective that Brazil has consistently defended remains the same: to bring an end to the embargo and to ensure that international relations are based on dialogue and respect for the Charter of the United Nations. This must prevail. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Algeria.

Thank you, President. Algeria aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Group of 77 and China. I wish to add the following remarks. We welcome the participation of His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parilla, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba. I commend his country's enduring commitment to the principles of solidarity, of dignity, and of independence. President, The continued economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed on Cuba inflicts enormous hardships on the Cuban people. It's severely constraining this country's development efforts and undermining its ability to achieve the sustainable development goals by 2030. We express our deep concern over the significant social-economic consequences of these unilateral coercive measures that adversely affect its sovereignty, its self-determination, its independence, and development of Cuba. These run counter to international law and the purposes and principles enshrined in the United Nations Charters. Finally, my country, Algeria, reiterates its strong conviction that dialogue, diplomacy, and the peaceful settlement of dispute remain the only sustainable and credible path to resolving differences, preventing escalation, and, finally, achieving lasting peace and security and stability. We urge all parties all parties to demonstrate a heightened sense of responsibility in order to spare the entire Latin America and Caribbean region from any further instability or rising tensions. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Algeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Mr. President, at the outset, I would like to extend my warm welcome to His Excellency Bruno Rodríguez Parella, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cuba. My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the African Group, the Nine Allied Movements, and the group of G77 in China. The peaceful settlement of disputes and respect for international law are fundamental principles of the Charters of the United Nations. In this regard, unilateral measures that are not consistent with the Charter of the United Nations need to be given the necessary attention by the international community, particularly in the view of their potential implications for sustainable development and international cooperation. My delegation notes the continuation of unilateral measures affecting Cuba, which continue to present economic and humanitarian challenges for the country. These measures have also posed risks to the availability of essential services and affected Cuba’s engagement in global economic and financial affairs. Mr. President, constraints affecting critical supplies have implications for the delivery of essential public services. Such restrictions can limit the capacity to achieve the SDGs, address socio-economic priorities, and strengthen resilience to the adverse effects of climate change. For many years, the General Assembly has expressed its position on these matters through the adoption of resolutions calling for an end to unilateral measures imposed on Cuba. These positions reflect the importance attached by the international community for the respect to the purpose and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations, as well as to the promotion of constructive international cooperation. In conclusion, Ethiopia reiterates its call for the removal of undue restrictions on critical supplies, while calling for dialogue consistent with international law and the Charter of the United Nations, with a view to supporting the well-being and sustainable development of the Cuban people. I thank you, Mr. President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ethiopia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of The Gambia.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, The Gambia aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Non-Aligned Movement, G-77 and China, and the African Group, and wishes to make the following remarks in its national capacity. Mr. President, The Gambia remains concerned about the implication of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo on Cuba and its people. The additional restrictions, particularly those affecting energy supplies, deepen our concern over the humanitarian and development consequences. As a small developing country, The Gambia believes equitable access to finance, technology, and international market is essential to development. Measures that restrict these opportunities place additional burden on developing economies and constrain their capacity to respond to the needs of their people. Such restrictions can further challenge developing countries in meeting their people's needs. Accordingly, the Gambia reiterates its support for General Assembly resolution 80/4 and previous resolutions on this question. We encourage further efforts to implement the Assembly’s repeated appeals to lift the embargo. Our consistent call to lift the embargo is grounded in the purpose and principles of the United Nations Charter. We underscore the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding, and international cooperation in supporting the aspirations of all people to advance their social and economic development. Excellencies, our long-lasting cooperation with Cuba has given The Gambia a deep appreciation of its contribution to sustainable development. Cuba's support in healthcare and medical training has contributed significantly to our national development. Cuba has continued to demonstrate solidarity through assistance and capacity building across the developing world, particularly in Africa. These contributions reflect the spirit of South-South cooperation and the importance of preserving and strengthening it. Mr. Chair, sorry, Mr. President, as a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, The Gambia remains committed to peaceful coexistence and settlement of differences through diplomacy. We encourage renewed efforts, including through the Secretary-General's good offices, to ease tensions and advance the normalization of relations. Dialogue and engagement remain the most constructive means of overcoming differences and creating conditions for lasting cooperation and peace. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of The Gambia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

Mr. President, China supports the statements by Uruguay on behalf of G-77 and China, and by Eritrea on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations, and welcomes the presence of Cuban Foreign Minister, His Excellency Mr. Bruno Rodríguez Parrija. Today, two figures are staring us in the face: one is 64 years, the other is 34 years. The United States' illegal economic blockade and unilateral economic sanctions against Cuba have persisted for 64 long years and are still being intensified to this day. And for 34 long years, the UN General Assembly has been deliberating on the resolution necessary of ending the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the US against Cuba. 34 years on, it remains unimplemented. The two historical periods and processes bear witness to the profound suffering endured by the Cuban nation and its people, as well as their indomitable resistance. They also document the United States' hegemonic acts and bullying, which violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and trample upon the international order and the basic norms governing international relations. For 33 consecutive years, this resolution has been adopted by an overwhelming majority, an eloquent testimony to the conscience of humanity and the power of justice. China has always stood on the right side of history, on the side of the common values of humanity, and on the side of fairness and justice. Today, standing at this august podium of the UN, China once again strongly urges the United States to immediately cease its blockade and pressurization against Cuba. There is no reason whatsoever for the 64-year illegal unilateral sanctions to continue, and no reason whatsoever for the 34-year-long call for justice to be put aside again, the resolution "Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba" should be implemented without delay. Maintaining the position outlined above, China will once again solemnly cast its vote in favour of the draft resolution submitted by Cuba under the agenda item "Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States against Cuba." There is more to 64 years and 34 years than just numbers. They tell a story of historical profundity and a cautionary tale that is deeply sobering. Over the past hundred years, the world has gone through the brutalities and agonies of both hot wars and cold wars. The arc of humanity that bends towards self-awakening and positive progress has led the world out of war and confrontation towards peace and cooperation. Today, multipolarization Globalization and economic globalization are a trend that is here to stay. Humanity is so intertwined that it is impossible to separate one from the other. The vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind is gaining traction and widely subscribed to by nations. The international community should continue to work for the positive and for good, stand united, support Cuba's just struggle to safeguard national dignity and sovereign equality, support the common development of all countries, and advance human progress. In this vein, we wish to make a sincere appeal for the following actions: First, act now to uphold sovereign equality and oppose external interference. All countries, regardless of size, wealth or strength, are equal members of the international community. Every country is entitled to independently choose a social system and development path suited to its national context. The future and destiny of Cuba must be and can only be decided by the Cuban people themselves. No country has the right to impose sanctions, its own will and its own development model on another country, much less to use military intimidation or abuse judicial means to pressure Cuba. Second, act now to let multilateralism prevail over unilateral sanctions. Unilateral sanctions not authorized by the UN Security Council have no basis in international law. Self-interest and prejudices, along with “house rules” are not the norms or the right approach whereby countries interact with each other. The international community must pool efforts to urge the country concerned to return to the the right path, respond to the consensus appeal as reflected in UN UNGA resolutions, immediately lift all types of sanctions and secondary sanctions against Cuba, remove Cuba from the list of so-called state sponsors of terrorism, and work together to safeguard the UN-centered international system and the international order based on international law. Third, act now to strengthen solidarity and cooperation in the interest of fairness and justice. Every country should be able to stand with dignity among the nations of the world, and the people of every country have the right to subsistence and to development. It is unacceptable to use illegal means such as economic blockades, to obstruct and undermine the right to subsistence and development of the people in other countries, as it runs counter to international moral justice and the common values of humanity. The international community should take a clear stance, defend the right to development, promote development cooperation, and safeguard the rights and dignity of the people in the continuous process of fulfilling their aspirations for a better life. China will keep up its steadfast support for Cuba's just cause of defending national sovereignty, security, and the right to development, as well as the just cause more broadly of maintaining independence and autonomy, pursuing development and progress so as to build a peaceful and prosperous world and shape a community with a shared future for mankind. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Kenya.

Thank you, Mr. President. Kenya aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the African Group. It is now more than six decades since the economic, commercial, and financial embargo against Cuba came into place, sharply contradicting the very principles on which the United Nations was founded: sovereign equality, noninterference, and the pursuit of shared prosperity. For this reason, our heads of state and government, during the 39th ordinary session of the African Union Assembly held in Addis Ababa in February 2026, reiterated their position, calling for the lifting of sanctions on Cuba's people and government. for the 17th time. The continued enforcement of this specific embargo violates not only Cuba’s right to development, but also erodes the trust and cooperation that our global community urgently needs within a rule-based multilateral order. Their continued application serves neither justice nor international peace. As we gather once again during this eight-first session of the United Nations General Assembly to deliberate on this question, we must remember that unilateral embargoes and sanctions inflict indiscriminate suffering on civilians, erode livelihood, and accelerate economic fragility. They distort global markets, deepen inequalities, and perpetuate unfair systems that deny developing nations a fair chance to steer their own prosperity. Kenya reaffirms that the conduct of international relations must be guided by respect for international law and by a genuine commitment to multilateralism, one that treats every member state as equal. Consistent with that ninth ordinary session of the African Union Assembly resolution and our position throughout the years, Kenya will vote in favour of this resolution before us. We also continue to hold on the hope that this year's vote will be the last that the Assembly must take on this matter. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Kenya. We have heard the last speaker in this debate on this item for this meeting. We shall hear the remaining speakers tomorrow, 28 October, at 10:00 AM in this hall. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you so much.