Wednesday, 28 October 2026
Presenter: Ms. Prashanthi Krishnamoorthy
Location: New York
EOV by Sri Lanka: Item 37 - Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba
28th October 2026
Mr. President,
Sri Lanka aligns itself with the statements delivered on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement and the Group of 77 and China and wishes to make the following remarks in its national capacity.
Sri Lanka has consistently opposed unilateral economic measures that are inconsistent with the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law. We maintain our longstanding position that the economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed against Cuba should be brought to an end.
Mr. President,
The latest report of the Secretary-General highlights the continuing impact of these measures on the daily lives of the Cuban people. United Nations agencies report persistent difficulties in obtaining medicine, medical equipment, and other essential supplies - compounded by higher costs and delays in banking and shipping.
The energy situation has placed added pressure on the population. Fuel shortages and prolonged power outages have disrupted transportation, water supply systems, hospitals, and food distribution. The Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator reports that interruptions to refrigerated transport delayed the timely vaccination of more than 30,000 children. A child waiting for a vaccine or a patient waiting for treatment should not have to bear the consequences of differences between States.
Sri Lanka welcomes, in this context, the humanitarian assistance provided by the United States to Cuban families this year through Catholic Relief Services, Caritas Cuba, and the Catholic Church. We hope such humanitarian cooperation will continue.
Mr. President,
Sri Lanka also remains concerned by the extraterritorial effects of unilateral measures, including their impact on the legitimate interests of other States and the freedom of international trade and navigation.
Measures that restrict access to essential goods and services place a heavy burden on ordinary people, and complicate efforts to achieve sustainable development.
Sri Lanka reiterates its longstanding position that the embargo against Cuba should be brought to an end and will continue to support the resolution before this Assembly.
Thank you.