31 Oct 2018
Madame President,
1 Let me start by acknowledging here today the presence of the distinguished Foreign Minister of Cuba and we welcome him to the United Nations.
2 I have the honour to address the General Assembly on behalf of the ten Member States of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to express our support for the resolution to end the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against the Republic of Cuba. ASEAN aligns itself with the statements delivered by Venezuela, on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and Egypt, on behalf of the G77. In a multilateral rules-based system, there is no justification for a unilateral, economic, and commercial and financial embargo on Cuba.
3 Since this session began, we have heard clarion calls from Member States to forge a more inclusive world where differences are resolved through greater engagement, and where dialogue prevails over withdrawal or confrontation. ASEAN firmly believes in these ideals, which are in accordance with the fundamental principles of sovereign equality, non-interference, and non-intervention as enshrined in the UN Charter.
Madame President,
4 ASEAN notes that the assessment of the Resident Coordinator in Cuba, which is detailed in the latest report of the Secretary-General, that “the embargo continues to affect economic, social and environmental development of the Cuban people, in particular the quality of life of the most vulnerable socioeconomic groups”. This marks the fourth year that ASEAN has made a statement at the General Assembly calling for the unilateral embargo against Cuba to be lifted as soon as possible. ASEAN Member States have also voted unanimously in favour of the resolution for the past 17 years.
Madame President,
5 It has been three years since the United States and Cuba restored diplomatic relations. ASEAN encourages both countries to build on that first step and chart a path forward together towards the normalisation of relations. Ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo on Cuba will be a significant and historic step in the right direction. This would significantly improve the quality of life and living standards of the Cuban people, and contribute to the economic development of both countries. An end to the embargo would also advance the General Assembly’s efforts towards achieving an inclusive 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
6 We recognise that much remains to be done, and encourage the United States and Cuba to remain committed to an open and constructive dialogue, underpinned by mutual respect. ASEAN joins with the vast majority of the international community in reiterating our support for the lifting of the unilateral embargo against Cuba as soon as possible.
7 I thank you, Madame President.
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