Cuba To Continue Fighting Despite Economic Obstacles: Diaz-Canel
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel, Dec. 20, 2024. X/ @ColleraHdez
December 20, 2024 Hour: 2:01 pm
Currently, Cuba remains affected by the U.S. blockade, as well as by its inclusion on the U.S. list of states that sponsor terrorism.
On Friday, President Miguel Diaz-Canel attended the closing session of the National Assembly debates, where he reflected on the year that is about to end.
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He asserted that the Cuban government and people would continue striving to move forward despite the challenging situation caused by the U.S. economic war against his country, aiming to resume the path of growth and development as soon as possible.
Currently, Cuba remains affected by the U.S. economic, commercial, and financial blockade, as well as by its inclusion on the list of states that sponsor terrorism.
“These two aggressive U.S. policies bear the hallmark of empires, namely, the application of collective punishments and their prolongation over time,” Diaz-Canel said, seizing the opportunity to highlight the heroism of the Cuban people.
He acknowledged that this year has been “one of the most difficult” for his country, with “enormous efforts and insufficient results” due to the economic and energy crisis.
Nonetheless, Cuba remains vigilant and is prepared for a second term of Republican Donald Trump. “We will stay alert but without fear,” Diaz-Canel assured, emphasizing that his administration is always willing to “engage in dialogue and develop relations based on respect and equality” with Washington.
Despite all the adversities, Cuba is beginning to see “positive signs,” though they still have a “limited impact.” For example, the Cuban president cited the reduction of the fiscal deficit and an increase in food production, which he described as a matter of “national security.”
He acknowledged that the last months of 2024 have been “particularly complex,” following the country’s experience of two hurricanes, two major earthquakes, and three collapses of its national electrical system.
While external circumstances have undoubtedly weighed heavily on domestic economic performance, the leadership of the Cuban Revolution must engage in more self-critical analysis to maximize outcomes and identify and mitigate obstacles to progress, Diaz-Canel said.
“Much more can be achieved, and greater strides can be made because the country possesses a wealth of talent developed through public policies centered on human well-being,” he stressed.
