Mr. President,
Cuba is firmly committed to the defense and strict observance of the Charter of the United Nations, International Law, and International Human Rights Law.
Our country has a legal and institutional framework that enshrines, develops, and guarantees the fundamental rights set forth in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Cuba is a signatory to both instruments and, although it has not ratified them, recognizes and complies with the letter and spirit of the Covenants. Our country is also a State Party to 44 international legal instruments on human rights, which further develop the rights enshrined in the Covenants.
Despite the enormous damage caused by the criminal blockade imposed on us by the United States, Cuba will continue investing substantial resources to protect civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights, which enjoy broad recognition and protection under the Constitution and the national legal system.
On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Covenants, our country reiterates its firm commitment to the noble cause of protecting all human rights for all persons.
Thank you very much.