At the ECLAC meeting, Cuba’s ambassador Mercedes Vicente denounced the adverse effects of U.S. sanctions and illegal occupations on migration. She called for international cooperation to uphold migrant rights and combat discrimination. Vicente also underscored Cuba’s engagement with 24 other nations on migration matters, closing with a plea to protect migrant rights for a more equitable future.
During a recent meeting convened by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), Mercedes Vicente, the Cuban ambassador to Chile, highlighted the detrimental effects that the U.S. blockade and the country’s designation as a terrorism sponsor have on migration in Cuba. She criticized the United States for utilizing the Guantánamo Bay naval base as a detention center for migrants, which she described as an illegal occupation of Cuban territory.
Ms. Vicente participated in the second regional meeting focused on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, attended by representatives from various sectors including governments, international organizations, academia, and civil society. She underscored the necessity of international cooperation to ensure the rights of migrants and to combat issues such as human trafficking and smuggling.
The Cuban ambassador urged for enhanced dialogue and coordination among nations to eradicate xenophobia and discrimination, thereby safeguarding the integrity and dignity of migrants. She reported that Cuba engages in regular migration discussions with 24 other countries to promote collaborative efforts.
In her address, Vicente also reflected on the historical significance of human mobility, reminding attendees that many individuals in the region are descendants of migrants who contributed their skills and experiences. She concluded by stating, “Let us safeguard the rights of those who migrate today, and we will be contributing to a more just future for all.”
The meeting, which will continue until March 20, is supported by ECLAC and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). UN estimates indicate that in 2024, approximately 48.3 million individuals in the region were living outside their home countries.
The statements made by Mercedes Vicente during the ECLAC meeting emphasize the severe impact of U.S. policies on Cuba and collective migration efforts. She advocates for international cooperation to protect migrant rights and combat human trafficking, while also calling for dialogue to address xenophobia. This highlights the ongoing challenge of migration in Latin America, as evidenced by the significant number of individuals living abroad.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
