The WCC welcomes the U.S. decision to rescind Cuba’s status as a state sponsor of terrorism, viewing it as beneficial for the Cuban people. The designation, originally made in 1982, resulted in economic sanctions with severe impacts. The WCC has long advocated for the lifting of these sanctions, boosting prospects for peace and cooperation.
The World Council of Churches (WCC) has expressed appreciation for the United States’ recent decision to rescind Cuba’s status as a state sponsor of terrorism. Thabo Makgone Pillay, the WCC general secretary, remarked that this decision is anticipated to ease the hardships faced by the Cuban population, which have been intensified by the prior designation and the embargo. He urged the international community to leverage this opportunity to enhance the living conditions and prospects for Cubans.
Cuba was placed on the state sponsor of terrorism list in 1982 under the Reagan administration, primarily due to allegations of support for various insurgent and terrorist groups in Latin America and Africa. This classification prompted strict economic sanctions, limiting foreign aid, defense exports, and financial transactions with the country.
For years, the WCC has advocated for the lifting of economic, commercial, and financial sanctions against Cuba, positioning itself alongside churches advocating for peace, hope, collaboration, and respect. The WCC’s 11th Assembly in 2022 formally called for Cuba’s removal from the list of state sponsors of terrorism.
In December 2014, President Barack Obama initiated steps towards normalizing relations with Cuba, resulting in the removal of its terrorist designation in 2015. However, this action was reversed in January 2021, shortly before President Donald Trump left office, when Cuba was redesignated as a state sponsor of terrorism.
The WCC’s welcoming response to the U.S. removal of Cuba’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism underscores a significant step towards alleviating the economic hardships faced by Cubans. As the WCC continues to advocate for peace and cooperation, the hope for improved international assistance and trade opportunities for Cuba remains pertinent. This event is tied to ongoing diplomatic efforts and highlights the shifting dynamics in U.S.-Cuba relations since the initial designation in the 1980s.
Original Source: www.oikoumene.org
