Geneva, 28 April 2025. Ambassador Rodolfo Benítez Verson, Permanent Representative of Cuba to the UN in Geneva, sent a message of congratulations to the South Centre on the occasion of its 30th anniversary.
The Cuban representative stressed that the objectives behind the institution's founding on 31 July 1995 are more relevant than ever, as developing countries face an increasingly complex and challenging world.
Benítez Verson emphasised that the Centre has been much more than a place for research, analysis, and advisory work. It has served as a platform for reflection and debate, a tireless builder of collective awareness tied to the struggle of South countries for their legitimate rights, and an essential facilitator of synergies and alternative narratives.
He also underlined that the studies, analyses, and proposals made available by the South Centre to its 54 developing member countries, including Cuba, demonstrate that another form of globalisation is possible—one that is fairer and more sustainable.
“We need the Centre to continue supporting those of us who raise our voices against domination and hegemony, unilateral coercive measures, genocidal blockades—such as the one imposed on the Cuban people—and the attempt to impose a single culture and model upon the world. The Centre must remain a catalyst in efforts to ensure that developing countries speak with one voice and stand united against those who seek to divide us, render our realities invisible, and curtail our rights. Only when we act cohesively do developing countries become a significant force in defending the interests of our peoples,” the Cuban Ambassador stressed in his message.
Cuba is one of the founding countries of the South Centre, a prestigious intergovernmental organisation based in Geneva that provides technical advice and conducts research to strengthen the capacities of South countries and institutions in multilateral negotiation processes.