One more time, Cuba obtained a significant victory in the United Nations General Assembly; the resolution entitled “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the United States of America against Cuba” was adopted with the almost unanimous support of UN member states. The resolution was passed with 191 votes in favor. Only the USA and Israel voted in isolation against the text, no abstention.

Once again, today, the world expresses its position condemning the economic, commercial and financial siege applied by Washington for more than half a century.

The results of the last years, the stand made by heads of state and government of the five continents and the recognition of United States President, Barack Obama, that “the embargo (blockade) should exist no more”, neutralizes any doubt about the position of the international community.

We reiterate what was said by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, moments before the vote: “The facts show, quite clearly, that the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed against Cuba is in full and complete implementation”.

“The blockade constitutes flagrant, massive and systematic violations of human rights of all Cubans, is contrary to international law, qualifies as an act of genocide under the Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide of 1948 and is the main obstacle to the economic and social development of our people”, was highlighted by the Minister.

Now more than ever, the blockade continues to be an absurd, illegal and morally unjustifiable policy which has not succeeded and never will succeed in undermining the Cuban people’s patriotic decision to defend its sovereignty, independence and right to self-determination.

On time again, the General Assembly, with overwhelming majority, has declared itself to be in favor of respect for International Law, compliance with the Principles and Purposes of the United Nations Charter and the right of the Cuban people to choose their own future for themselves. That must be respected.

“We are very grateful to all the governments and peoples, parliaments, political forces and social movements, representatives of civil society, international and regional organizations that have contributed with his voice and his vote, year after year, to substantiate the justness and the urgency of the elimination of the blockade”, thanked the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba in the United Nations General Assembly.

The Embassy of Cuba wants to express its deep gratitude to the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, because during 24 years consecutive Cuba had received a full supporting always in favor of this Resolution.