Mr. President,
My delegation aligns itself with the statements delivered by representatives of the G-77 and China, NAM and the African Group, respectively.
I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report contained in A/79/80.
Unilateral coercive measures are unjustifiable and violate the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law.
The fact that Cuba has been subjected to unilateral economic and financial embargo has brought heavy tolls on its people and posed a pressing challenge on the Government in its efforts to achieve sustainable development, particularly Agenda 2030. These measures continue to impede the progress of the Cuban economy, creating obstacles from taking part in international trade and finance. The strain on the economy is further exacerbated by other severe global development challenges such as the effects of climate change.
What’s more concerning is the fact that the embargo remains unchanged.
For more than three decades, Mr. President, the international community has been calling for ending the economic and financial embargo on Cuba. Each year, we see an overwhelming support for the people and Government of Cuba in which the majority of Member States reaffirm the urgent need to lift the embargo.
Ethiopia has been consistently echoing this call for the lifting of the embargo imposed on Cuba, and reiterates its position that the embargo should quickly be terminated.
We also hold a strong view that the necessary support and cooperation should be provided to Cuba to enable the country overcome its development challenges. This coupled with the lifting of the embargo would help Cuba unlock its full potential and expedite its march toward sustainable growth and development.
Ethiopia encourages open and constructive dialogue to bridge differences, normalize relations and take steps in lifting the embargo.
In closing, Mr. President, Ethiopia wishes to reiterate the call by the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government for the lifting of the unjustifiable economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed on Cuba.
I thank you Mr. President