Angola’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Francisco Jose da Cruz, reaffirmed his country’s opposition to the economic, commercial, and financial siege against the Caribbean nation and expressed deep concern regarding its socioeconomic and humanitarian consequences.

He specifically pointed to issues concerning access to basic supplies, medicines, energy, and technology, as well as development opportunities—all of which hinder the Caribbean nation’s efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and restrict legitimate trade and cooperation.

Da Cruz recalled the remarks made by Angolan President João Lourenço during the UNGA session last September, in which he stated that the blockade is the primary cause of the dire situation facing Cuba and its people—a situation he described as inhumane, unjust, and contrary to the principles and norms of international law.

The Angolan representative argued that the international community must look beyond political differences and foster understanding between two nations that are geographically close—a relationship that should serve as a bridge for cooperation rather than a source of confrontation.

“In a time of rising geopolitical tensions, it takes renewed political courage, diplomatic creativity, and responsible leadership to resolve disagreements between states.

Dialogue does not mean giving in, and a political disagreement is not a sign of weakness,” he remarked.

It encouraged the United States and Cuba to resume constructive and direct political engagement aimed at normalizing bilateral relations—guided by the principles of sovereign equality and mutual respect—and to consider practical confidence-building measures, the facilitation of humanitarian access, and legitimate commercial transactions.

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