Barbados votes to end Cuban embargo for 32nd straight year

Barbados joined the United Nations General Assembly in condemning the American economic embargo of Cuba for the 32nd consecutive year when the resolution entitled, Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba, was considered during a meeting held on Wednesday.

The UN overwhelmingly passed the resolution by a vote of 187 in favour, two against, and one abstention. Only the United States and Israel voted against the resolution.

Chargé d’ affaires/ Deputy Permanent Representative of Barbados to the United Nations, Kereeta Whyte, during the delivery of the national statement, told the General Assembly:

“The Government of Barbados once again calls for an immediate end to the embargo and urges the removal of Cuba from the US Department of State’s list of alleged state sponsors of terrorism, a designation that only exacerbates the suffering of the Cuban people.

“The sentiments we express today are not new. They reflect the deep conviction we have articulated in this Assembly over the years. Indeed, since this resolution was first introduced in the General Assembly at its 49th session, in 1991.”

Noting that dialogue is the path forward, Whyte added: “Barbados values its strong relations with both the United States and Cuba and calls on the US government to engage in meaningful negotiations with Cuba to normalise relations. This step would not only reduce tensions but also pave the way for greater peace, cooperation, and development in our region.”

The diplomat said that Barbados will continue to advocate for lifting the economic, commercial and financial blockade, which is critical for the people and Government of Cuba to achieve full prosperity.

(PR/BT)