NEW YORK, October 18, 2017.- Cuba, whose people have suffered an economic, commercial and financial blockade for more than 55 years, is well aware of the damages caused by unilateral coercive measures. Those were the opening words of Cuban Representative to the United Nations, Counselor Alejandro Castillo Santana , during his statement at the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur of the Human Rights Council on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights, of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly. The Cuban diplomat also expressed the Cuban opposition to all unilateral coercive measures, including those used as a tool for political and economic pressure against any country, particularly against developing countries.
He reaffirmed that unilateral coercive measures are contrary to international law, to international humanitarian law, to the Charter of the United Nations, and to the norms and principles governing peaceful relations among States; and also hinder economic and social development and create impediments to the full enjoyment of human rights.
Statement by the Cuban delegation at the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur of the Human Rights Council on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights. Third Committee, New York, 18 October 2017
Mr. Chairman,
My delegation would like to thank Mr. Idriss Jazairy for the presentation of his oral report which expands the one presented to the Human Rights Council. We reiterate the importance of his mandate and our support.
Cuba, whose people have suffered an economic, commercial and financial blockade for more than 55 years, is well aware of the damages caused by unilateral coercive measures.
Accordingly, we have repeatedly and at all levels expressed opposition to all unilateral coercive measures, including those used as a tool of political and economic pressure against any country, particularly against developing countries.
Cuba reaffirms that unilateral coercive measures are contrary to international law, to international humanitarian law, to the Charter of the United Nations, and to the norms and principles governing peaceful relations among States.
Similarly, States should refrain from taking unilateral measures contrary to international law and to the Charter of the United Nations, which hinder economic and social development and create impediments to the full enjoyment of human rights.
The delegation of Cuba, as coordinator of the Working Group on the issue of Human Rights of the Non-Aligned Movement, will present the draft resolution entitled "Human rights and unilateral coercive measures" at this session of the General Assembly.
Finally, we look forward to the presentation to the Human Rights Council of a Declaration on unilateral coercive measures and in this regard, we would appreciate the Rapporteur's opinion on the impact that it would have and what steps you consider could be taken by the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council.
Thank you very much
(Cubavsbloqueo-Misión Permanente de Cuba ante las Naciones Unidas)
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