The President of the General Assembly welcomes the normalization of the bilateral relations between the United States of America and the Republic of Cuba

Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the President of the General Assembly

United Nations, New York, 17 December 2014

H.E. Mr. Sam Kahamba Kutesa, President of the General Assembly (PGA) welcomes the announcement made on 17 December 2014 by the United States of America and Cuba on their intention to normalize bilateral relations.

The President of the General Assembly congratulates the United States of America and Cuba on their important decision and further encourages the two countries to make every effort to pursue areas of mutual interest and address obstacles that have impeded productive diplomatic relations.

The President underlines that today’s announcement is a positive step towards ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba, and in line with the General Assembly resolution 69/5.

The President of the General Assembly calls on the United States of America and Cuba to strengthen their relations in accordance with the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations. President Kutesa supports both countries in their efforts to cultivate fruitful bilateral relations.