In a statement released on Facebook following the vote, the organization argued that the Italian government failed to condemn this U.S. policy, sacrificing the long-standing history of friendship and solidarity between Italy and Cuba in order to maintain its loyalty to Washington.
The ARCI emphasized that an abstention does not represent a neutral stance, but rather a political choice that, in their view, amounts to complicity in measures that harm the Cuban economy and the living conditions of its population.
The organization also expressed concern regarding divisions within Europe; the lack of a unified position in the face of pressure from Washington hinders the defense of international law and the well-being of millions of Cubans, it stated.
In its declaration, the ARCI rejected the idea of Italy abandoning its autonomy and respect for international law simply to appease the U.S. government, and reaffirmed its commitment to the Cuban people.
Furthermore, the association announced that it will continue to promote mobilizations and solidarity initiatives aimed at breaking the isolation imposed on Cuba, asserting that the Italian government’s decision does not sever the ties between the two peoples.
“Cuba is not alone,” the ARCI statement declared, affirming that the organization will continue its efforts to bring an end to the U.S. blockade against the Caribbean nation.
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