The United States blockade against Cuba is the main impediment to the sustainable development of the Antillean nation, stated Ernesto Soberon Guzman, Cuba's permanent representative to the United Nations, during his intervention at the Dialogue with the Secretary-General on the implementation of the Quadrennial Comprehensive Policy Review (QCPR). The event was held in New York within the framework of the Operational Activities Segment of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

According to information shared by the Permanent Mission of Cuba to the United Nations on its Facebook social network profile, the diplomat highlighted that the report presented by the Secretary-General clearly outlines the challenges facing the UN system and its operational activities for development.

He recognized the efforts made to increase efficiency and strengthen the alignment of cooperation with national priorities, but noted that significant limitations persist, preventing the full deployment of capabilities in support of sustainable development.

Soberon warned that the financial problem of the UN development system has acquired a structural character, marked by an increase in conditioned funding and the non-fulfillment of historical official assistance commitments, including the target of 0.7 percent of gross national income.

He underscored that the sustained decline in resources allocated for development seriously compromises the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and pushes away the possibility of moving toward the eradication of poverty as a central objective.

The Ambassador expressed concern over actions by the United States that undermine the foundational principles of the UN and weaken the pillar of development, while simultaneously eroding the foundations of the multilateral system.

In this context, he denounced the impact of the intensified economic, commercial, and financial blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba, describing it as the primary obstacle to the country's sustainable development.

He emphasized that this policy of pressure is accompanied by threats of aggression, the consequences of which would be incalculable and unpredictable not only for Cuba but also for the United States and the entire region.

The Permanent Representative reiterated the importance of preserving peace, strengthening multilateralism, and ensuring a UN development system endowed with sufficient, predictable, and unconditional resources.

He warned that if respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter and international cooperation is not restored, the 2030 Agenda risks becoming an unfulfilled promise for millions of people worldwide.