Cuban ambassador Mercedes Vicente brought attention to the harmful consequences of the U.S. blockade on migration during an ECLAC meeting. She criticized the use of Guantánamo Bay for migrant detention and underscored the need for international cooperation to ensure migrant rights and combat trafficking. Vicente highlighted the historical significance of migration and called for mutual respect and dignity for migrants. The event will run until March 20.
At a recent Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) meeting, Cuban ambassador to Chile, Mercedes Vicente, highlighted the negative impact of the U.S. blockade on Cuba’s migration issues. She criticized the U.S. for using the Guantánamo Bay naval base, an illegally occupied Cuban territory, as a detention center for migrants.
Vicente participated in the second regional meeting concerning the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration. This event brought together representatives from various sectors, including government, UN entities, academia, and civil society, to address migration challenges.
During her speech, Vicente stressed the necessity of international collaboration to safeguard migrant rights and counteract illegal smuggling and human trafficking. She urged nations to strengthen dialogue, combat xenophobia, and guarantee dignity and respect for all individuals.
Additionally, she informed participants that Cuba engages in regular migration discussions with 24 nations. Citing historical context, the ambassador reminded attendees of migration’s longstanding role in human history, emphasizing the contributions of migrant ancestors throughout the region.
Vicente concluded by expressing that protecting the rights of present-day migrants would foster a more equitable future for all. The meeting, co-sponsored by ECLAC and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), will conclude on March 20. Latest UN data indicates that approximately 48.3 million individuals from the region were living abroad in 2024.
Mercedes Vicente’s address at the ECLAC meeting underscores the detrimental effects of the U.S. blockade on Cuba’s migration dynamics. She advocates for a united international approach to safeguard migrant rights and combat human trafficking. By emphasizing historical migration trends, Vicente calls for respect and dignity for migrants, affirming that their rights are essential for a fair global future.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
