Speaking on behalf of that group of countries, the permanent representative of Azerbaijan at the United Nations, Yashar Aliyev, condemned the enforcement of coercive measures against Cuba, which were intensified during the Donald Trump administration (2017- 2021).

At the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly, the diplomat highlighted the adverse effects of the hostile US policy, as well as the illegal nature of the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed on Cuba for more than six decades.

The blockade constitutes a violation of international law and the UN Charter, and has extraterritorial implications that hinder contacts between peoples and the development of ties in various spheres, Aliyev emphasized.

In particular, the diplomat referred to the damage in sectors such as health care, education, construction, tourism and banking, and recalled how the White House persecutes transactions in Cuba and denies the Caribbean island’s access to international markets.

The blockade is unjustified, and has terrible effects that even prevent the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, he pointed out.

For this reason, the NAM reiterated its historic position of rejection of this coercive measure and demanded that Washington put an end to it.

Similarly, the NAM condemned the provisions to damage Cuba’s economy and noted that strengthening the blockade means a significant setback in the normalization of relations.

In addition, Aliyev repudiated the groundless accusation and the inclusion of Cuba in the list of alleged State sponsors of terrorism drawn up by the United States.

“Our movement remains committed to strengthening multilateralism and respect for the principles of non-intervention for the maintenance of peace and security in the world,” Aliyev insisted.

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