Nebenzia, who spoke at the 28th plenary session of the 79th session of the UN General Assembly, recalled that the US blockade against Cuba limits the rights of almost 200 states that wish to maintain commercial relations with Cuba.

The Russian Federation’s position in principle on this matter remains unchanged. Together with the vast majority of members of the international community, we firmly defend the immediate lifting of the illegal US blockade of Cuba, introduced more than 62 years ago, he said.

We start from the absolute futility of what is being done. The economic, commercial and financial blockade of the United States against Cuba is a relic of the Cold War and prevents Cuba from interacting with multilateral institutions, its full participation in international and regional debates, cooperation and international division of labor.

And this despite the fact that the Republic of Cuba does not threaten the security of the United States or its citizens. In addition, we consider these actions by Washington are a direct violation of international law and the UN Charter.

This is a flagrant example of extraterritorial unilateralism, which prevents a sovereign state from following its own development model for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, as well as an attack on the inalienable right of Cuban citizens to a dignified life.

Cuba has deserved authority, bravely resisting the inhumanity of a senseless blockade and, at the same time, helping those in need in various countries around the world.

Regarding the US efforts to expose Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, this is senseless and an expression of political cynicism in order to continue the inhumane blockade against the Island of Liberty.

In conclusion, Nebenzia said that Russia expresses its support for the proposal made by the Cuban Government and urges all delegations to support the resolution. jg/arc/gfa