Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, speaking at the III Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) and the European Union (EU) in Brussels, urged for enhanced, equitable, and cooperative ties.
He underscored the global transformations posing challenges and opportunities and expressed a firm belief in the potential for building stronger relationships beneficial to their populations.
Díaz-Canel highlighted the absence of progress in implementing the strategic partnership between Latin America, the Caribbean, and Europe, established in 1999, pointing out the significant time gaps between summits.
Vivimos hoy profundos cambios a nivel global, de grandes riesgos y desafíos, pero también de oportunidades. Creo firmemente que podemos y debemos construir mejores relaciones: más justas, equilibradas, solidarias y cooperativas para mejorar la vida de nuestros pueblos. pic.twitter.com/ZPsB1pscdw
— Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez (@DiazCanelB) July 18, 2023
He underscored the significance of CELAC as a manifestation of the collective vision and sovereignty of Latin American and Caribbean nations.
Díaz-Canel also addressed several contentious issues including financial policies, foreign debt, and migration.
He suggested a comprehensive reform of the inherited financial systems and a need to address the recurring problem of foreign debt.
The president also appealed for a broader discussion on migration issues and expressed concerns over rising intolerance towards migrants.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of sovereign equality and non-interference in each country’s internal affairs.
He urged respect for each nation’s right to determine its political, economic, and social systems.
To tackle international disorder, he proposed a more cooperative, fair, and supportive world order.
On a positive note, Díaz-Canel recognized the summit as a vital step towards rejuvenating regional relations.
He highlighted key areas for collaboration such as climate change, food security, development financing, technology transfer, renewable energy, digital transformation, scientific research, trade, and investment.
Additionally, he expressed gratitude for the continued support from both Latin American and European countries in opposition to external pressures on Cuba.