Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning affirmed that fabricating pretexts and spreading unfounded accusations cannot justify the blockade or the unilateral sanctions imposed by Washington on Cuba.

Mao was responding to recent comments made by Rubio during a hearing before the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.

The spokesperson pointed out that the United States has maintained unilateral sanctions and a blockade against Cuba for decades, which have severely affected the economy and living conditions of the population.

The official affirmed that those measures have caused enormous hardship for the Cuban people and face widespread opposition from the international community.

Mao affirmed that China will firmly support Cuba in defending its sovereignty and national integrity and in rejecting all external interference.

Dozens of Cubans and Chinese celebrated the 95th birthday of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Raul Castro, and underscored their support for the island’s sovereignty and defense against threats from the United States.

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