Guyana: Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago Distance Themselves from CARICOM’s Cuba Sanctions Statement

Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago have officially distanced themselves from a CARICOM statement that condemned the economic sanctions imposed on Cuba by the United States. This decision marks a significant diplomatic shift within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which consists of 15 member states.

The CARICOM Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) issued an emergency declaration noting that while most member states supported a strong criticism of U.S. foreign policy regarding Cuba, both Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago chose to reserve their positions and did not endorse the collective statement.

Despite the reservations from these two countries, the remaining CARICOM members proceeded to issue a robust defense of Cuba. They expressed concern over the tightening of economic, commercial, and financial measures by the U.S. administration, which they believe is leading to a severe humanitarian crisis in Cuba. The council highlighted issues such as the obstruction of fuel transport vessels, which has resulted in widespread blackouts and disruptions to air travel, schools, and hospitals.

COFCOR emphasized that the economic pressure has created a humanitarian emergency affecting thousands of Caribbean nationals living and studying in Cuba. Additionally, the council raised alarms about international rhetoric suggesting potential military action against Cuba, asserting that the island does not pose a threat to any nation and that unilateral embargoes violate human rights principles.

The decision by Guyana to withhold its support reflects a shift in its foreign policy. President Dr. Irfaan Ali has publicly stated the need for a change in Cuba’s political status quo, indicating a departure from previous cooperative ties between Guyana and Cuba, particularly following the termination of the Cuban Medical Brigade contract.

This diplomatic divergence occurs amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Cuba, with the U.S. intensifying its security campaign against the Cuban government, which it has labeled a threat to regional stability. Recent legal actions against former Cuban leaders have further complicated the diplomatic landscape, forcing CARICOM nations to reassess their positions in relation to U.S. policies.

Source: hgptv.com