Distinguished Delegates,
This meeting takes place at a time when humanity has reached a scientific and technological potential unimaginable just a few decades ago –an extraordinary capacity to generate wealth and well-being that, under conditions of equality, equity, and justice, could guarantee dignified, comfortable, and sustainable living standards for almost everyone worldwide.
In this context, the role of science, technology, and innovation is undeniably central to the political debate on development. Progress in these fields will determine whether and when it will be possible to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals related to ending poverty, zero hunger, health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, solutions to energy challenges, employment, economic growth, industrialisation, and social justice.
The transformative process towards achieving these objectives must recognise the role of knowledge as the foundation for science, technology, and innovation.
We are witnessing humanity’s greatest scientific and technological revolution. Science has reshaped the very course of life. Technological developments have connected the world, overcoming physical distance. Yet, these opportunities are not accessible to all.
It is essential to break down barriers closely tied to an unjust and unsustainable international economic order, which perpetuates privileged conditions for developed nations while consigning the majority of humanity to underdevelopment.
The digital divide, both in terms of access and skills, remains an obstacle to widespread technology adoption in the country. Additionally, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly relevant in the digital environment, requiring greater capacity-building efforts.
In today’s globalised world, cooperation is vital for the adoption of new technologies, especially in developing countries. It is unacceptable that, amid the greatest scientific and technological advancement in history, global poverty and hunger reduction efforts are being reversed.
Progress towards a sustainable way of life, in harmony with nature, will not be possible without fostering international solidarity, including North-South and South-South cooperation, to share regulatory frameworks, technologies, and knowledge.
Despite being a developing country, hampered by severe economic hardships and the damaging effects of the economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States government, Cuba possesses scientific capabilities that are part of the legacy of the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, who, with remarkable foresight, identified this sector as a key driver of development.
For Cuba, international cooperation is critical in adopting new technologies, given the constraints imposed primarily by the U.S. blockade. It can facilitate access to advanced technologies and their implementation, serve as a source of funding for innovation projects, strengthen the role of technical advisory councils, expedite the execution of proposed actions and programmes, and encourage the active and conscious engagement of youngsters in scientific, technological, and innovative development.
In Cuba, collaborative networks are being developed to share research results, particularly in the creation and application of artificial intelligence platforms. The country will continue to promote solidarity, complementarity, cooperation, and dialogue among nations.
The advancement and promotion of international cooperation will enable us to participate in the scientific and technological revolution on equal footing.
Thank you.