Mr. President,
Cuba is opposed to the imposition of selective and politically motivated resolutions and mandates, as in the present case against the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
This type of resolutions, imposed against the will of the State concerned, does not contribute to the promotion of human rights, and closes the door to the dialogue and cooperation that should prevail in the Council. Moreover, it has proven to be extremely inefficient in terms of the Council's time and resources.
Respectful cooperation among all countries, based on the principles of the UN Charter, is the effective way forward for the promotion and protection of human rights.
A non-discriminatory mechanism, such as the Universal Periodic Review, is consolidated as the main avenue for addressing human rights in all countries, on an equal footing.
Mr. President,
The opposition to this selective and politicized mandate, does not advance any value judgment on those other outstanding issues mentioned in preambular paragraph 19 of the draft resolution, which require a fair and honorable solution with the agreement of all stakeholders.
Mr. President,
For the aforementioned reasons, Cuba disassociates itself from the consensus on draft resolution L.9, and requests that this position be duly recorded in the report of the session.
Thank you very much.