New York, May 11, 2026 – During the general debate of the 21st session of the UN Forum on Forests, Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations, Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, reaffirmed Cuba's commitment to the effective implementation of the Strategic Plan for Forests 2017–2030 and to the achievement of the Global Forest Goals.
In his address, the Cuban diplomat highlighted the importance of forests for mitigating and adapting to climate change, conserving biodiversity, and protecting soil and water resources. He also noted Cuba's steady progress in forestry, which results from decades of public policies focused on reforestation, ecosystem restoration, and the sustainable management of forest resources.
Ambassador Soberón stated that Cuba's forested area now covers more than 31% of the national territory. He recalled that the country's Third Nationally Determined Contribution reaffirms the priority given to protecting and expanding forests as a fundamental tool for strengthening climate resilience, increasing carbon sequestration, and reducing land degradation.
He also highlighted Cuba's programs promoting mangrove restoration, the rehabilitation of degraded areas, and the conservation of vulnerable ecosystems—including coastal zones particularly exposed to sea-level rise and extreme weather events.
The Permanent Representative denounced that these efforts face extraordinary obstacles stemming from the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba, which has been further intensified by a recent energy blockade against the country. He added that these unilateral coercive measures severely limit access to financing, technologies, fuels, equipment, and supplies essential for sustainable forest management, environmental monitoring, forest fire prevention, and the implementation of climate adaptation projects.
Finally, Ambassador Soberón reiterated the need to strengthen international cooperation, guarantee access to means of implementation, and increase financing for countries of the Global South, based on the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities, in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals and environmental protection.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations.