Addressing the international community, “including the United States government,” Diaz-Canel stated from the Cuban parliament that honest criticism and self-criticism have always been inseparable from revolutionary practice.

The president explained that the economic and social transformations approved by the Cuban legislature are not related to negotiations with the United States, but rather are a sovereign decision of the country to confront the policy of maximum pressure imposed by Washington on Havana.

The head of State reaffirmed in his address that his country is willing to engage in respectful dialogue on all issues with the United States government, while denouncing “the infamous practice of selling the world the idea of a failed state while blockading a heroic people.”

He stated, “This is not how sovereign, independent international relations work, a condition we will always uphold.”

Diaz-Canel asserted in his speech that his country will not ask permission to exist nor surrender its sovereignty; however, he reiterated his willingness to establish a civilized and respectful relationship with its northern neighbor, for the benefit of both sides.

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