Geneva. Today, 13 February, the retreat of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (ACP) took place within the framework of the work of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
During her address at the event, Counsellor Madelyn Rodríguez acknowledged the active role of this alliance of States and its significant influence in actively defending common positions and submitting proposals on various issues of common interest.
The Cuban official denounced that from day one, when the new United States administration took office, Cuba has been affected by its reinstatement on the list of States allegedly sponsoring terrorism, which seriously impedes access to the international financial system. She added that this is coupled with the impact of the economic, commercial and financial blockade enforced by the United States for more than 60 years, resulting in the country's participation in international trade under discriminatory conditions and limited access to international markets.
The Island's representative stated that despite the difficult conditions, Cuba takes part in the work of the WTO and reiterates its commitment to continue working in defence of multilateralism.
Given the current complex geopolitical scenario, she urged the Organisation's Members to increase their leverage in negotiations and to continue actively defending their positions in favour of the improvement of our countries' economies.
The Organisation of ACP States, which at present comprises 79 Members, has a broad representation of developing States and LDCs within the framework of the WTO.