Cuban Ambassador Mercedes Vicente criticized the U.S. blockade’s impact on migration during an ECLAC meeting. She condemned the use of Guantánamo Bay for migrant detention and stressed the need for international cooperation to protect migrants’ rights. Vicente emphasized dialogue to combat discrimination and highlighted Cuba’s participation in regional migration discussions.
At the recent meeting of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Cuban Ambassador to Chile Mercedes Vicente condemned the detrimental impacts of the United States’ economic blockade on her nation. She specifically criticized Washington’s classification of Cuba as a nation sponsoring terrorism and the use of the Guantánamo Bay naval base for detaining migrants, characterizing it as an illegal occupation of Cuban territory.
Ambassador Vicente participated in the second regional meeting on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, which brought together various stakeholders, including government representatives, UN officials, and civil society members. She highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in safeguarding migrants’ rights while combating illegal smuggling and human trafficking.
Emphasizing the need for increased dialogue between nations, Vicente urged for efforts to eliminate xenophobia and discrimination against migrants, advocating for their dignity and well-being. She noted that Cuba engages in regular migration discussions with 24 countries, reflecting its commitment to migration management.
The ambassador pointed out that human mobility has been an inherent aspect of humanity throughout history, reiterating that many people in the region have diverse ancestries contributing to their societies. She concluded by stating, “Let us safeguard the rights of those who migrate today, and we will be contributing to a more just future for all.”
This ECLAC meeting, which is set to continue until March 20, is co-sponsored by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). According to recent UN estimates, approximately 48.3 million people in Latin America and the Caribbean were living outside their home countries as of 2024.
In conclusion, the Cuban ambassador underscored the critical effects of the U.S. blockade on migration and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in protecting migrants’ rights. She advocated for dialogue among countries to combat xenophobia and enhance the well-being of migrants. The ongoing ECLAC meeting aims to further these discussions and address the significant migration challenges facing the region.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
