Speaking virtually at a meeting of heads of State and/or government of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), the Cuban president affirmed that despite the restrictions of the blockade imposed by the United States, Cuba remains faithful to its solidarity and humanistic vocation.

We will continue to promote cooperation in various spheres, particularly health, and share our modest experiences in disaster risk reduction and tackling climate change, he added.

Diaz-Canel urged the rich countries to assume their responsibility in support of the efforts to achieve sustainable development for all peoples and preserve the planet from the threats caused by them.

He stressed that, in addition to possessing the resources, these nations have a moral duty to honor the commitment to official development assistance, capacity building, technology transfer, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and climate finance.

In his speech, the Cuban head of State called on the small island states to work together to respond to common challenges.

Diaz-Canel also spoke on Wednesday at a United Nations high-level meeting to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Program of Action against racism, where he ratified his Government’s will to achieve full social justice and combat all kinds discrimination.

The 76th session of the UN General Assembly began on Monday and will run until September 27.

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