New York, October 27, 2025. — The Deputy Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations, Ambassador Yuri Ariel Gala López, addressed the Counter-Terrorism Committee meeting, which was established under Security Council resolution 1373 (2021), on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Executive Directorate. In his statement, Ambassador Gala López reiterated Cuba's condemnation of any action that aims to encourage, support, finance or cover up any terrorist act, method or practice. He noted that such actions should not be justified under the guise of any religion, nationality, civilization or ethnic group.
He emphasized that combatting terrorism in all its forms and manifestations requires a comprehensive approach and international cooperation based on respect for the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law.
The diplomat recalled that the Cuban people have been victims of terrorist acts for more than six decades. These acts have caused the deaths of 3,478 people and permanent injuries to 2,099. The vast majority of these acts were planned, organized, and financed from U.S. territory.
He emphasized that rejecting terrorism is a fundamental aspect of Cuban foreign policy and is enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic. The diplomat reaffirmed Cuba's exemplary record in confronting this global problem and noted that Cuba is a State Party to the 19 international conventions on the subject.
Ambassador Gala López emphasized that terrorism cannot be eradicated as long as double standards, manipulation, political opportunism, and selectivity prevail in addressing it. He denounced the United States government's inclusion of Cuba on its arbitrary and unilateral list of states that allegedly sponsor terrorism as evidence of the political manipulation of the fight against this scourge.
Finally, he reaffirmed the importance of strengthening the United Nations Global Counterterrorism Strategy. He also urged the resumption of negotiations on a comprehensive convention on international terrorism that would address all aspects of the phenomenon, including state-sponsored terrorism.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations