We express our conviction that we will not lower our arms or get down on our knees to apologize for championing the right to difference, Díaz-Canel stressed.

Acclaimed on his arrival to the auditorium and interrupted many times with slogans depicting opposition to the hostile and unjust U.S. blockade, the Cuban leader expressed solidarity with other governments and peoples who also challenge imperial logic.

In this regard, Díaz-Canel cited Venezuela, Nicaragua, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Bolivia and Honduras and their leaders, Palestine, the Saharawis, Puerto Rico and its right to independence as well as Argentina in its claim to sovereignty over the Malvinas.

Díaz-Canel condemned all aggressions on Cuba, particularly the economic, commercial and financial blockade, inclusion in the unilateral states sponsoring terrorism (SST) list, and the human rights campaigns.

Concerning human rights, the president stated Cuba will continue guaranteeing enjoyment of human rights and the necessary legal framework.

Those who accuse us are the greatest violators of our rights and those of other peoples, he said.

Likewise, he thanked the solidarity with his country and the emergency for a new order.

Solidarity cannot be blocked as food, medicines and equipment are blocked, it is an indestructible weapon of struggle and a message of peace, he said.

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