Remarks by the President of the General Assembly H.E. Dennis Francis at,
the University of Havana, Cuba
“Cuba and Multilateralism: Opportunities and Challenges”
28 June 2024
[As Prepared for Delivery]
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Let me begin by expressing my heartfelt appreciation to the Government and people of the Republic of Cuba, for the warm welcome extended to me and my delegation – and to all of you present here this evening.
I especially extend a special greeting to the young students also joining us today.
You are the future of diplomacy, the torchbearers of a Cuban foreign service that is renowned for its professionalism – and significant contributions to multilateralism.
Your dedication and enthusiasm will certainly continue to shape the world of tomorrow.
Beyond its revival of old memories since I was last here, my visit to the Republic of Cuba comes at a pivotal moment.
A time when multiple interlocking challenges demand our immediate and unwavering attention.
I stand before you today at a time when our multilateral system is under unprecedented scrutiny – but in a way also making the United Nations’ role more appreciated as its cornerstone, and more so crucial than ever.
For almost eight decades, the UN has tirelessly pursued a vision of a more prosperous and peaceful world – ensuring that no one is left behind.
The immense and undeniable contributions of the United Nations – and its loyal and committed members like the Republic of Cuba – have shaped the very fabric of our global community.
The General Assembly – as the birthplace of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the conventions, compacts, and statements that encompass every aspect of humanity, including development, peace and security, and human rights – stands out as a testament to this commitment.
I can say with certainty that these texts bear the Cuban stamp – clearly reflecting the nation’s dedication to this global platform.
Gathered here today – with such a diverse audience that also comprises the young people – we are presented with yet another rare opportunity to delve even deeper into the essential work of the United Nations.
It an ideal opportunity for us – collectively – to reaffirm our abiding faith in the bedrock principles of the UN Charter and underscore the critical importance of multilateralism and international cooperation, amidst the myriad crises confronting us.
Specifically, as we engage in this dialogue, it is imperative that we shine a spotlight on the formidable challenges confronting countries in the Global South.
Challenges we are keenly attuned to – and for which Cuba’s role in efforts for their resolution stands out prominently.
The country’s dedicated efforts to foster a more equitable global order – with a steadfast focus on the needs and aspirations of Global South nations – cannot be overstated.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
As a founding member, the United Nations is in Cuba’s DNA.
And – since January 1, 1959 – Cuba has stood as a staunch advocate for the principles of multilateralism, the preservation of peace, and the respect for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of all nations.
As a small island state, Cuba’s influential voice resonates powerfully across the United Nations – passionately championing social justice, environmental protection, the eradication of hunger, food security, and peace and nuclear disarmament.
Additionally, Cuba steadfastly advocates for a new international economic order, upholds the rights of children and women – and diligently works to improve access to essential services such as health and education.
I would also like to especially commend Cuba’s remarkable contribution to advancing gender equality – a matter that is a priority for my Presidency.
Impressively, women now constitute 43.32% of the National Assembly of People’s Power – placing Cuba among the top three nations worldwide for female parliamentary representation.
This is a milestone that not many nations have fallen far short, but one that the United Nations itself – as an organization that must lead by example – has yet to reach and should undoubtedly aspire to.
In almost eight decades since the founding of our organization, only four women have occupied the position I hold – and we are yet to herald a female Secretary-General, hopefully sooner in our lifetime.
Dear Friends,
In times of crises, this island nation has consistently answered the United Nations’ and bilateral calls for assistance – providing much-needed aid, capacity-building and technical support to many developing countries including those affected by natural disasters.
Significant examples include Cuba’s response to the earthquakes in Pakistan, Haiti, and Mexico, hurricanes in the Caribbean and Central America, and the tsunami that impacted Asian nations such as Sri Lanka and Indonesia.
Uninterruptedly since 1988, Cuba has stationed a brigade of health professionals and technicians in Haiti – providing unwavering support to its people through meteorological and seismic events, the cholera outbreak, and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic.
Further, a special mention must be made of Cuba’s response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa in 2014.
A total of 262 Cuban doctors and nurses, specializing in health emergencies, traveled to the worst-affected areas in Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia.
Their tireless efforts over almost seven months were instrumental in controlling the epidemic – for which I express deep gratitude to Cuba and its people for their unwavering solidarity with those in need.
It is without a doubt that – as a nation so steeped in its unwavering belief in multilateralism and international cooperation – Cuba’s many deeds of kindness and unparalleled solidarity spans many borders.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The G77 and China Summit in Havana earlier this year – under Cuba’s able chairmanship – played an instrumental role in advancing our global agenda.
Importantly, Cuba has always prioritized the reform of the international financial system – in addition to the urgent need to tackle climate change and to secure climate action funding for developing countries.
And, for over half a century, Cuba has held a unique and steadfast position in global affairs — a remarkable feat for a small, developing island nation.
Indeed, this island nation has maintained a significant and active presence in international relations – contributing vitally to multilateralism by promoting increased economic and political cooperation among nations.
In these turbulent times – when world peace faces tremendous challenges – Cuba stands as an important strategic partner for the United Nations in strengthening our fledgling multilateral system.
The Country’s leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement and the G77 and China is well-known – as is its unwavering commitment to promoting diplomatic agendas for peace.
Every year, the United Nations General Assembly supports Cuba’s resolution “Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba”.
For 31 consecutive years, the vast majority of United Nations Member States have voted to end these unilateral measures – a broad demonstration of support which underscores the international community’s recognition of Cuba’s right to economic sovereignty and development.
As we approach the final months of the current session, it is imperative that we concentrate on the Summit for the Future and its outcome – and use this as a milestone moment to decisively address some of these lingering issues.
This upcoming landmark Summit holds the promise of transformative change – but its success hinges on the active and constructive engagement, as well as unwavering commitment of all Member States.
We must demonstrate flexibility and a sincere effort to achieve consensus.
I am confident that we can count on Cuba’s steadfast support, leadership, and cooperation to ensure the Summit’s resounding success.
Together, let us strive to make this pivotal moment a triumph for our collective future.
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
As I close, I encourage Cuba to maintain its exemplary and active engagement on the multilateral stage – whether individually or through influential groups such as the G77 and China or the Non-Aligned Movement, among other.
As we confront the mounting challenges before the United Nations, the multilateral system, and the international community at large, Cuba’s steadfast commitment to these causes proves indispensable.
Such unwavering dedication not only inspires us all – but also serves as a cornerstone for our collective success.
In the insightful words of José Martí: “In a time of crisis, the peoples of the world must rush to get to know each other.”
With Cuba’s enduring support, let us uplift each other, surmount these challenges, and realize our shared goals towards peace, progress, prosperityand sustainability, for all.
I thank you.
I thank you.
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