Auckland.- Organized by the the New Zealand Institute of International Affairs (NZIIA) in Auckland, the Ambassador of Cuba, Mario Alzugaray made a presentation in which he addressed, among other topics, the vision of Cuba on current issues on the international agenda, such as the situation in Latin America and the aggressive escalation of the US Government, revealed in the strengthening of the economic, financial and commercial embargo on Cuba.
Information was provided on the scope and impact of the US blockade, with emphasis on the most recent measures of the Trump Administration, including the application of Title III of the Helms Burton Act.
On the situation in Latin America, Ambassador Alzugaray referred to Cuba's solidarity with Venezuela and the need to promote dialogue based on basic principles of international law, such as respect for sovereignty and non-interference in its internal affairs, as well as the defense of peace.
Through the presentation, the Cuban diplomat talked about the friendly relations between Cuba and New Zealand, highlighting the coordination and exchanges on multiple issues of the multilateral agenda and the priority that both sides attach to relevant themes such as climate change and nuclear disarmament. He added the consensus among Latin American nations, on the opportunities and interest in more exchanges with New Zealand.
On Cuba's ties with the Pacific region, the Cuban Ambassador underlined the presence of doctors in Kiribati, Nauru and Vanuatu, as well as the study programs that have allowed dozens of youngsters from that region to graduate in medical specialties in Cuban universities. Associated with this issue, he pointed out the importance for the development of this cooperation of the agreement signed with New Zealand to provide English training to Cuban doctors who serve in those nations. (Embacuba NZ).