In a statement, the Ecuadorian solidarity organization specifically called on the permanent members of the Security Council and other UN nations to support the initiative presented by Cuba to end the unilateral coercive measures applied by Washington.

The Coordinator noted that the special session, convened under the theme “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States of America against Cuba,” must take place “without interference of any kind,” in accordance with the principles and norms of the United Nations Charter.

It also denounced that, for over six decades, the blockade has caused “serious violations of the rights of the Cuban people, particularly their legitimate right to development,” and recalled that the blockade has been rejected by the international community in 33 consecutive General Assembly votes.

“Defending international law and the self-determination of peoples, and rejecting unilateral coercive measures, constitute fundamental principles for building an international order based on peace, sovereignty, and justice,” the statement read.

This declaration of support for Cuba was released as the UN General Assembly debates—this Tuesday—the request submitted by Cuba to address the effects of the blockade, particularly the energy blockade that has jeopardized essential services such as healthcare, food supply, and transportation.

According to the results of the procedural vote, 136 states supported opening the debate, against nine votes in opposition and 30 abstentions, despite Washington’s efforts to prevent the matter from being addressed.

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