Spain, Mexico, and Brazil call for respectful dialogue with Cuba

The United States, opposed to the communist regime in Cuba since it was established in 1959, escalated their economic pressure on the Caribbean country of 9.6 million inhabitants in January. Spain, Mexico, and Brazil expressed their concern on Saturday about the “dramatic situation” in Cuba and called for “sincere and respectful dialogue” with Havana, without explicitly mentioning the U.S. blockade imposed since January.

“We express our tremendous concern about the humanitarian crisis facing the Cuban people and demand the adoption of necessary measures to alleviate this situation,” stated the three governments in a joint statement released by the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

They urged to “avoid actions that worsen living conditions for the population or violate international law” and called for “a sincere, respectful dialogue, and in compliance with international law.” The three countries also advocated for “a lasting solution to the current situation and guarantee that the Cuban people decide their future freely.”

This call comes as a summit of left-wing world leaders is taking place in Barcelona, attended by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, Brazilian President Luis Inácio Lula da Silva, under the leadership of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.

The United States has intensified its economic pressure on Cuba by blocking all hydrocarbon supplies in January, right after overthrowing its main ally, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. This blockade has worsened the economic and energy crisis that Cuba has been experiencing for many years.