Cuba’s Ambassador Mercedes Vicente, at the ECLAC meeting, criticized U.S. actions affecting migration. She condemned the blockade, the use of Guantánamo for migrant detention, and stressed international cooperation to protect migrant rights against smuggling and discrimination. Vicente called for stronger dialogue among countries to safeguard dignity and well-being. The meeting, concluding on March 20, is supported by ECLAC and IOM, amid UN estimates of 48.3 million regional migrants.
During a meeting with the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Cuba’s ambassador to Chile, Mercedes Vicente, articulated concerns over the detrimental impacts of the U.S. blockade and the designation of Cuba as a terrorism sponsor. She criticized the United States for utilizing the Guantánamo Bay naval base, claimed by Cuba, as a facility for migrant detention.
Ambassador Vicente participated in the regional meeting focused on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, which included representatives from various sectors including governments and civil society. She underlined the vital role of international collaboration in safeguarding migrant rights and addressing issues such as human trafficking and smuggling.
She advocated for enhanced dialogue and cooperation among nations to combat xenophobia and ensure the dignity and well-being of migrants. Vicente highlighted Cuba’s commitment to regular migration discussions with 24 countries, illustrating the historical context of human mobility in the region.
In her concluding remarks, Vicente urged for the protection of migrant rights, emphasizing that such efforts would contribute to a more equitable future. The ongoing meeting is co-sponsored by ECLAC and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Recent UN estimates indicate that approximately 48.3 million individuals in the region were living outside their home countries by 2024.
In summary, Ambassador Mercedes Vicente’s statements at the ECLAC meeting reflect Cuba’s commitment to addressing the adverse effects of coercive U.S. measures on migration. Through advocacy for international cooperation and dialogue, Vicente aims to promote migrant rights and combat discrimination, emphasizing the historical significance of migration in the region. The ongoing discussions aim to facilitate a cooperative international framework for safe and dignified migration.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
