The diplomat pointed out that Cuba’s representatives at international forums have always sought to bring balance, perspective and justice to the debates.

“Cuba’s voice is the voice of reason,” noted the diplomat, who also congratulated the Cuban Government for its work as leader of the G77+China group, which is made up of 134 countries.

Francis pointed out that Cuba did an excellent job in representing the interests of the largest group of countries at the United Nations.

The UNGA president expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and reiterated that his presence in Cuba is an opportunity to discuss the complicated problems and issues that humanity is facing.

Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, in turn, stressed that the UNGA is the most democratic body of the system of universal and equitable participation, based on the sovereign equality of States, where all are represented on an equal footing.

He noted that although the UNGA has no enforcement, coercive or military means, the political and ethical message of its deliberations has a real influence on the world and a power that should not be underestimated.

“We southern countries know that this is the place where we are best heard and where, when we act united and together, we can make the legitimate interests of humanity and of the peoples prevail,” the head of Cuban diplomacy noted.

Rodriguez also highlighted Francis’s work and agenda as UNGA prsident.

On Friday, Francis will give a master lecture at the Aula Magna of the University of Havana on “Cuba and Multilateralism: Opportunities and Challenges,” with the participation of government officials, diplomats, young people, women leaders and scholars.

Dennis Francis, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, assumed the Presidency of the 78th UN General Assembly in September 2023.

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