Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Diaspora Relations Hon. Kenneth Darroux
Speaking on behalf of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and Diaspora Relations Hon. Kenneth Darroux expressed his disappointment in Cuba and Venezuela not being invited to the 9th Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles last week.
He stated that the real value of this summit must be that it serves as the platform for mutually beneficial exchanges to address our common issues. He declared that this calls for a new approach to collaboration and economic alliances founded on the principles of solidarity, cohesion and comradery, and respect for sovereignty as individual states.
“The equitable future, which we are seeking to build, cannot be achieved if we continue to create the grounds for discord and disunity to thrive, but the deed is done this time. But I reiterate the full participation of Cuba, Venezuela, and every country in our region, in the process of addressing the dire issues faced by our countries and the people of the Americas. For the deliberations to hit the intended mark, for our presence here to truly transform and enhance lives, for the decision-making to be relevant and timely, and for the people of the Americas to feel the positive impact of our leadership, we must be open to greater participation and consideration for the views of all.”
Hon. Darroux mentioned that many Caribbean states, including Dominica, have enjoyed friendly relationships with the Republic of Cuba for many years, and have benefitted from its exceptional record of their humanitarianism, particularly in the areas of health and education.
He stated that had it not been for Cuba’s assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of Caribbean nations would’ve suffered greatly.
“We look forward to the day when the Republic of Cuba receives the respect it truly deserves and is once again allowed a seat at the table to assist in forming solutions to our region’s most persistent problems. The Commonwealth of Dominica applauds the efforts of your administration towards reversing some of the unjust and harsh measures imposed on the Cuban people, by the former administration and the indication of the willingness of Washington to resume talks with Havana quite frankly, what better opportunity it would’ve been than at this summit, together with the rest of the OECS family, where you could signal to the world the seriousness of your intentions.”
He commended the United States for the recent measures to working with Cuba but stated quite bluntly that these measures are still not enough. He reiterated Dominica’s call for the lifting of the Cuban Economic Embargo and also called for the removal of Cuba from the State-Sponsored Terrorism List.
