Cuba has submitted a resolution to the United Nations General Assembly, urging the lifting of the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States over six decades ago. The resolution, titled "Necessity of Ending the Economic, Commercial and Financial Blockade Imposed by the United States of America Against Cuba," aims to eliminate the restrictions that have been in place since February 1962. This is the 34th time Cuba has presented this resolution to the General Assembly since 1992.
According to Cuban Ambassador to the UN Ernesto Soberón, the US government has been actively engaging with UN member states to influence the vote on the resolution. Soberón also mentioned that the US has implemented measures affecting energy supply and imposed sanctions on third countries. These actions have exacerbated the challenges faced by Cuba, including limited access to essential goods such as medicine, food, and clean water.
The Cuban government attributes various difficulties, including prolonged power outages and shortages of essential products, to the US embargo. The ambassador emphasized that the embargo has had a severe impact on the country's economy and its people's well-being. The resolution, however, is not binding and does not have the power to compel the US to lift the embargo, as it falls under US jurisdiction.
The US embargo on Cuba was officially established in February 1962, during the presidency of John F. Kennedy. Since then, the UN General Assembly has consistently supported Cuba's call to lift the embargo. In the previous year's vote, the resolution garnered 165 votes in favor, 7 against, and 12 abstentions. The outcome of this year's vote remains uncertain, as Cuba faces a severe economic crisis characterized by fuel shortages, power outages, and supply chain disruptions.
Cuba's economic crisis has worsened in recent times, with significant shortages of essential goods and a decline in living standards. The Cuban government has been working to address these challenges, but the US embargo has hindered its efforts. The international community has shown support for Cuba's cause, with many countries calling for an end to the embargo.
The UN General Assembly's consideration of the resolution is a significant event, as it highlights the global community's stance on the US embargo. The Cuban government remains hopeful that the resolution will gain widespread support, leading to increased pressure on the US government to reconsider its policy towards Cuba.
The vote on the resolution is expected to take place in the coming days, with the international community eagerly awaiting the outcome. The Cuban government's efforts to rally support for the resolution have been extensive, with diplomats engaging with UN member states to secure votes. The US government's stance on the embargo remains unchanged, but the UN vote will serve as a crucial indicator of global opinion on the matter.
Key points
- The US embargo on Cuba has been in place since February 1962.
- Cuba has submitted the resolution to the UN General Assembly 34 times since 1992.
- The resolution is not binding and does not have the power to compel the US to lift the embargo.
