Cuban Ambassador Mercedes Vicente addressed the ECLAC meeting, denouncing the U.S. blockade’s impact on migration. She criticized the illegal use of Guantánamo Bay as a detention center, emphasized international cooperation for migrant rights, and called for dialogue to eliminate discrimination. The meeting, running until March 20, highlights the urgent need to address regional migration issues affecting 48.3 million individuals.
During a session of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Cuban Ambassador to Chile, Mercedes Vicente, criticized the detrimental consequences of the U.S. blockade and the designation of Cuba as a state sponsoring terrorism. She specifically condemned the use of Guantánamo Bay as a migrant detention center, highlighting its illegal occupation by the U.S. on Cuban soil.
Vicente participated in a regional meeting centered on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, which gathered various stakeholders, including government officials, UN representatives, and civil society. She underscored the critical need for international collaboration to uphold the rights of migrants, while addressing issues related to human smuggling and trafficking.
The ambassador called for enhanced dialogue and cooperation among nations to eradicate xenophobia and discrimination, ensuring the dignity and welfare of migrants. Notably, she shared that Cuba actively engages in regular migration consultations with 24 countries.
Emphasizing the historic nature of human migration, Vicente pointed out that many individuals in the region are descendants of migrants who have enriched their new communities with diverse talents and experiences. She concluded her remarks with a plea to protect migrant rights as a step towards creating a more equitable future for all.
The ECLAC and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are sponsoring this meeting, which is set to last until March 20. Recent UN data indicates that approximately 48.3 million individuals in the region were living outside their countries of origin as of 2024.
In summary, Ambassador Mercedes Vicente’s remarks at the ECLAC meeting highlight the urgent need for international cooperation to protect migrants and combat discrimination. She articulated the significant impact of the U.S. blockade and the misuse of Guantánamo Bay on migration issues, calling for dialogue to ensure the well-being of migrants. The ongoing collaboration among nations is essential for fostering a just future and addressing global migration challenges.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
