New York, 16 June 2026. - Cuba reiterated today in the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization its strong support for the inalienable right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination and independence, by addressing the debate on the Western Sahara issue.
Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Daylenis Moreno Guerra, stressed on Cuba’s behalf that the elimination of colonialism in all its forms and manifestations remains an unfinished task for the international community. In this context, she stressed the importance of the recent proclamation of an International Day against colonialism in all its forms and manifestations as a contribution to raising awareness about the historical and current consequences of this phenomenon.
The Cuban diplomat noted that, despite numerous resolutions adopted by the General Assembly, the Security Council and the African Union, Western Sahara remains the last territory under colonial occupation in Africa. It also reaffirmed the need for the international community to make progress in implementing United Nations resolutions and decisions concerning this Non-Self-Governing Territory.
Cuba continued to advocate a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution leading to self-determination for the people of Western Sahara in accordance with resolution 1514 (XV) of the United Nations General Assembly on the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples. Reiterated that we do not favor unilateral decisions which disregard the interests and rights of the Sahrawi people, including an autonomy without sovereignty, which is in violation of international law, the UN Charter and resolutions 1514 (XV) and 2625 (XV) of the United Nations General Assembly.
In her address, the Cuban representative recalled that since 1976 Cuba has maintained cooperation with the Sahrawi people, particularly in the fields of education and health. She reported that by 2023 more than 2,150 Sahrawi students had graduated from Cuban institutions and that at the end of 2025 they were studying in the country 62 Sahrawi fellows, reflection of the historical commitment of the Cuban Revolution to the formation of the new generations of this brotherly people.
The Ambassador also denounced the impact of the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba, as well as the policy of maximum pressure and threats against the island, while reaffirming the willingness of his country to continue contributing to the formation of the Sahrawi people. Cuba reiterated its call to strengthen international cooperation and support for Western Sahara and reaffirmed its unwavering solidarity with the legitimate aspirations of the Sahrawi people for self-determination and independence.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations.