The diplomat noted that a vote will be held on the resolution calling for an end to the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba. While the resolution is expected to pass, the question remains: what happens next? It must move beyond being a mere agreement—a tradition that, frankly, should not even exist.

“It is a tradition that should be a source of shame for us,” Panfiorov remarked, emphasizing that this hostile policy ought to cease. He reaffirmed that Belarus will once again cast its vote in support of Cuba.

The diplomat from the Slavic nation recalled that for over 60 years, one state has sought to destroy another. Despite the passage of time—during which some countries have vanished and others have emerged—the blockade against Cuba has remained unchanged.

He stressed that this policy is unacceptable, as it constitutes a flagrant violation of the fundamental principles of the international system; the application of unilateral coercive measures against sovereign states is a breach of the United Nations Charter.

The existence of this economic, commercial, and financial blockade—now compounded by a fuel embargo—serves as a cynical display of contempt for established international norms.

Its objective is to coerce a sovereign state into altering its internal political system and, ultimately, sacrificing its freedom.

Furthermore, the blockade violates the principles of humanity and morality. The data regarding rising infant mortality rates and the plight of those suffering from serious illnesses serve as a more-than-eloquent counterpoint to any rhetoric concerning human rights.

Which human right could be more important than the right to life—a right of which ordinary Cubans are being deprived? No greatness can be achieved through the cruelty represented by the blockade, which deprives innocent people—including children—of their lives, Panfiorov noted.

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