-urges Caribbean solidarity

IN light of the UN General Assembly vote on Wednesday calling for an end to the longstanding U.S. embargo on Cuba, Halim Khan, President of the Guyana Cuban Solidarity Movement (GCSM), expressed strong support for lifting the sanctions.
He emphasised the significance of solidarity with Cuba, which has faced severe economic challenges due to the embargo, affecting its access to essential goods, fuel, and medical supplies. Khan commended the international community’s overwhelming support, with 187 countries voting in favour of ending the embargo, as only the U.S. and Israel opposed the resolution, while Moldova abstained.

Khan acknowledged that while the resolution is non-binding, it reflects a global call for change and an end to measures that have restricted Cuba’s economic development and access to resources. He argued that these sanctions not only isolate Cuba but have also created humanitarian crises, which disproportionately impact the Cuban people.

Khan remarked, “It’s time we unite in the Caribbean to support Cuba, our neighboring nation, which has endured hardships solely due to its political structure.” He underscored Cuba’s contributions to global healthcare, education, and emergency response, especially in developing nations, as a testament to its resilience and humanitarian values despite economic pressures​

The U.S. has maintained that its sanctions policy promotes democratic governance and human rights, despite growing international criticism. This year’s resolution reflects increased awareness of the embargo’s impacts on the Cuban populace, as countries continue to urge the U.S. to re-evaluate policies that hinder Cuba’s access to the global economy and fundamental resources​