CubaMinrex. Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de Cuba

Statement by the Minister of Justice of the Republic of Cuba, Maria Esther Reus.

 

Final remarks following the debate on the National Report

Geneva, February 5, 2009

Mr. President:

Cuba is grateful for the possibility of establishing this interactive dialogue with the United Nations Member States.

Our country took on this exercise very seriously and responsibly, convinced that genuine and respectful dialogue in accordance to the principles of objectivity, impartiality and non-selectivity is the indispensable means of support for international cooperation in matters of human rights.

From its very inception, Cuba supported and offered its contribution, both in terms of its national capacity as in its conditions as NAM President, to the establishment of the mechanism of the Universal Periodic Review. We saw it as an important instrument for universal application that would allow for the consideration of performance in the matter of human rights in every country, on an equal footing, on the basis of respect and constructive form. We channelled our efforts towards achieving a tool that would put an end to the pernicious practices of double standards and political manipulation that discredited the Human Rights Commission and consequently would boost the protection and promotion of human rights, supported by cooperation as the only truly effective way.

Cuba has attended this debate in order to present its reality in human rights matters, along with its achievements and its challenges. Cuba has participated in this dialogue openly, honestly and transparently, convinced of the usefulness of this exchange.

We have shared our experiences and taken note of the recommendations and constructive comments communicated by many delegations so that we may continue improving our system, with a view to fostering every day more, the enjoyment of all human rights by every one of our people. We will carefully examine these suggestions and we will study the best way to bring them about, according to our possibilities and corresponding to reality and needs.

Other comments and recommendations that question the political, economic and social system established by the Cuban people are contrary to the exercise of the right to self-determination by peoples and to the spirit of cooperation and respect that this exercise demands. We request of their authors that they abide by the principles and ways agreed to both by the General Assembly and the Human Rights Council by virtue of their respective resolutions 60/251 and 5/1.
Cuba has a worthy track record in matters of promoting and protecting the human rights of its people. The Revolution made the enjoyment of all of these human rights a reality for all Cubans, starting with bringing to fruition, for the first time in their history, their right to self-determination and human dignity. We have made great efforts to achieve the results we have attained, in the midst of difficult conditions and, in particular, the US genocidal blockade that has affected our people to a total of more than 93 billion dollars.

Cuba will continue resisting and moving ahead in the ever broader enjoyment of human rights. Cuba will continue its commitment to share the fruits of its work, as a modest contribution in solidarity with the cause of the human rights of other peoples in the world.

Mr. President:

Cuba reiterates its commitment to cooperate with the human rights machinery within the United Nations system and, in particular, its mechanism of the Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review, as well as with all those universal application and non-discriminatory institutions.

Cuba is open to dialogue with all states as long as it is based on respect and sovereign equality.

Cuba reaffirms its will to continue working on the promotion and comprehensive protection for the human rights of all, via the strengthening of international cooperation and constructive and respectful dialogue.

Thank you very much.

(Cubaminrex- Embacuba Ginebra)

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