Speaking before the United Nations Special Committee on Decolonization today, Cuba reiterated its strong support for the Saharawi people's inalienable right to self-determination, as stated in UN General Assembly Resolution 1514 (XV).
During his speech, Ambassador Ernesto Soberón Guzmán, Cuba's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, recalled that Western Sahara has been a Non-Self-Governing Territory for more than six decades, as declared by this Committee. He also emphasized that numerous resolutions from the General Assembly, the Security Council, and the African Union affirm the right of the Saharawi people to determine their own future.
The diplomat called for a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution that respects the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter. He rejected unilateral actions that disregard the rights of the Saharawi people, including autonomy proposals without sovereignty, as these actions are contrary to the international legal order.
Soberón Guzmán emphasized the need for greater international cooperation with the Saharawi people in this regard. He highlighted Cuba's continued support for over 40 years, particularly in the health and education sectors. As of 2023, 2,149 young Saharawis had graduated from Cuban educational institutions. Forty-nine scholarship recipients are continuing their studies in Cuba in the 2024 academic year, and 30 new scholarships were awarded for 2025.
Additionally, Cuban medical and educational brigades provide solidarity services in the Tindouf refugee camps. Cuba has also modestly contributed to immunizing Saharawi children against COVID-19.
The Cuban ambassador concluded by reaffirming that the Sahrawi people can always count on the solidarity of the Cuban people and government in defending their right to self-determination.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations