New York, 21 October 2019. Cuba reaffirms its commitment to continue promoting international cooperation in terms of human rights. We defend the principles of mutual respect, truth, justice, universality, impartiality and non-selectivity as the only way to promote and protect all human rights; stated Ambassador Humberto Rivero Rosario, representative of Cuba to the UN.
During the debate on Agenda Item 70: Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, of the Third Committee of the United Nations, the Cuban diplomat explained how the human rights of all Cubans are violated by the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the Government of the United States of America against Cuba for almost 60 years. This, he added, is an act contrary to the spirit and letter of the Charter of the United Nations and international law.
Rivero Rosario reiterated Cuba's opposition to selective approaches and initiatives against developing countries, particularly those driven by political motivations and hegemonic interests of certain powers; as well as to the certification of countries through unilateral lists such as those published by the United States on alleged violations of human rights.
He considered that the Universal Periodic Review mechanism of the Human Rights Council is the appropriate instrument to address the human rights situation in all countries without distinction or politicization.
He added that the effective realization of all human rights, respect for cultural diversity, different religions and beliefs; the diversity of political, economic and social systems; and the right to self-determination of peoples should be the cornerstone of United Nations member states.
Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations