United Nations, Oct 30:
India has voted in favour of a United Nations General Assembly resolution calling for an end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba, reiterating that the restrictions should be lifted to help the Caribbean nation pursue its development goals.
The 193-member General Assembly adopted the resolution on Wednesday, with 130 countries voting in favour, 17 against and 25 abstaining. India’s position was conveyed by Soumya Nair, Counsellor at India’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations.
In its statement, India said the General Assembly had repeatedly called for an end to the embargo and rejected laws and regulations with extraterritorial effects that adversely affect the sovereignty of other countries and the progress and prosperity of their people.
Nair said India’s commitment to multilateralism was based on the belief that international challenges should be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the UN Charter. India urged all countries to refrain from adopting or applying such measures and to repeal those that are inconsistent with their international obligations.
Referring to a report by the UN Secretary-General, India also highlighted the impact of the restrictions on Cuba’s economy and essential services. It said lifting the embargo would help create conditions for Cuba to participate more fully in international cooperation and pursue its development aspirations.
The General Assembly resolution reflects the continuing international opposition to the decades-old US restrictions. However, such resolutions are not legally binding, and the decision on changing the American policy rests with the US government and lawmakers.