Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores | July 12, 2021 | Press Release
Mexico's Position on Cuba
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador addressed the press this morning to discuss Mexico’s stance on the recent events unfolding in Cuba, emphasizing the guiding principles of Mexico’s foreign policy. These principles, deeply rooted in the Mexican Constitution, include non-intervention, the self-determination of peoples, the peaceful resolution of disputes, and the unwavering guarantee of human rights. In the context of the developing situation between Mexico Cuba, President Obrador’s remarks underscored Mexico’s commitment to these tenets on the international stage.
President López Obrador began by expressing solidarity with the Cuban people during this period of unrest. He articulated a strong belief that any resolution to the current situation must be achieved through dialogue, explicitly rejecting the use of force, confrontation, or violence. He firmly stated that the future of Cuba must be decided by Cubans themselves, recognizing Cuba as a free, independent, and sovereign nation. This position firmly establishes Mexico’s commitment to non-intervention in the affairs of Mexico Cuba relations.
A central theme of President Obrador’s address was the unequivocal rejection of interventionism. He cautioned against the politicization of the Cuban people’s well-being, arguing that humanitarian concerns should not be exploited for political gain. He specifically mentioned the noticeable media campaigns, orchestrated by those critical of the Cuban government, and warned against allowing these to dictate the narrative. Acknowledging that numerous countries in Latin America and the Caribbean face challenges, he pointed out the disproportionate attention Cuba is receiving, driven by those with political agendas against the Cuban government. President Obrador stressed that humanitarian support should not be weaponized as a pretext for interference in matters that are fundamentally for the Cuban people to resolve.
Despite the complexities of the situation, Mexico is prepared to offer humanitarian assistance to Cuba, devoid of any political bias. President Obrador affirmed Mexico’s historical solidarity with Cuba and all nations globally. He indicated that if the Cuban government deems it necessary and its people request it, Mexico stands ready to provide aid in the form of medicines, vaccines, and essential food supplies. He emphasized that access to health and nutrition are basic human rights, which should be addressed without political manipulation or interventionist motives. This offer of support highlights the enduring bond between Mexico Cuba.
Furthermore, President Obrador directly addressed the long-standing United States blockade against Cuba, stating that if there is a genuine desire to assist Cuba, the most impactful initial step would be the suspension of this blockade. He aligned Mexico with the majority of countries worldwide in calling for its end, describing it as a truly humanitarian act. He condemned blockades as inherently contrary to human rights, asserting that no nation should be subjected to isolation and deprivation for political or any other reasons. President Obrador firmly stated that no entity possesses the right to impose decisions that adversely affect entire nations, underscoring the impact of the blockade on Mexico Cuba relations and the broader region.
Mexico will closely monitor the evolving situation in Cuba. President Obrador announced that he has instructed the Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Marcelo Ebrard, to actively track events and, if requested by the Cuban government, to establish communication and serve as a bridge to facilitate assistance to the Cuban people. He reiterated a respectful appeal to all parties to abstain from the use of force or violence, urging Cubans to resolve their issues peacefully. In unequivocal terms, he conveyed Mexico’s solidarity with the people of Cuba, emphasizing the historical fraternity between the two nations. He reminded the audience of Cuba’s past support for Mexico and called upon governments and groups with vested interests in Cuba’s internal affairs to refrain from intervention and to respect the self-determination of the Cuban people. He insisted that Cubans must be allowed to resolve their issues peacefully and without external interference, reaffirming Mexico’s stance on Mexico Cuba relations.
President Obrador concluded by expressing his sincere hope for a peaceful resolution in Cuba, with full respect for Cuban sovereignty. He reiterated his desire to see a resolution without confrontation or violence, achieved by the Cuban people themselves, free from foreign interference. He presented two potential paths to address the issues of food and medical shortages in Cuba: first, the immediate cessation of the “unfair and inhumane” blockade, and second, the provision of humanitarian aid from countries worldwide, devoid of any political agendas. Mexico, he reaffirmed, stands ready to contribute food, vaccines, and medicines, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to supporting Cuba and highlighting the intertwined destinies of Mexico Cuba.
