“Our commitment is to peace, as evidenced by the relations we enjoy with the entire international community and by the Latin American and Caribbean Peace Proclamation, signed by the heads of state and government of the region in Havana,” the Foreign Minister stated.

Rodriguez emphasized that “we have the duty and the right to reject and confront the aggression that punishes and threatens us,” and warned: “We have the right and the supreme duty to defend ourselves, even with weapons, if we are militarily attacked.”

The Foreign Minister expressed Cuba’s aspiration for a “respectful and constructive relationship with our voracious neighbor to the north,” always based on absolute respect for the sovereign rights and prerogatives of each party.

Rodriguez highlighted the role of Cubans residing abroad in the country’s development.

“Cubans who live outside of Cuba, anywhere in the world, have an important role in the nation’s development, both from wherever they are and if they return to the country,” he stated.

He noted that the new economic and social transformations considerably expand these possibilities and that many of the government measures adopted in recent years are aimed at strengthening ties with traditional partners.

The Foreign Minister expressed his gratitude for the expressions of solidarity from all continents and recalled Fidel Castro’s words: “We will face whatever risks are necessary, for as long as necessary, because our revolutionary banner will never be lowered.”

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