ASEAN demands end to US blockade on Cuba at UNGA
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ASEAN urges Washington to lift its decades-long blockade on Cuba, citing severe economic harm and violations of international norms at the UNGA session.
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivers a speech as he takes part in a high-level international conference at the UNGA on September 22, 2025. (AP)
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has joined the growing international chorus calling for the immediate lifting of the US economic, financial, and commercial blockade against Cuba.
The demand was made during Tuesday's session at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where global delegates debated draft resolution A/80/L.6.
Speaking on behalf of ASEAN, Singapore’s Ambassador to the UN, Burhan Gafoor, emphasized the need for dialogue rather than confrontation between Washington and Havana.
We demand that the United States lift the economic and commercial blockade against Cuba. We reiterate our conviction that differences between the two sides can find consensus through dialogue and not confrontation, Gafoor stated.
Blockade causes severe shortages and economic losses
The ambassador detailed the long-term impact of the blockade, citing Cuba’s loss of billions in revenue across trade, foreign investment, and critical imports.
He explained that the sanctions have resulted in widespread shortages of everyday goods, hindered access to essential medical services, and restricted Cuba’s ability to import fuel, an issue that exacerbates energy challenges amid intensifying climate threats in the Caribbean.
“The blockade significantly affects any possibility of progress achieved by Cuba in the last 60 years,” Gafoor stressed.
ASEAN rejects Cuba’s inclusion on terrorism list
The diplomat also condemned Cuba’s continued presence on the US list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, calling it a politically motivated move aimed at reinforcing the blockade’s impact.
“These sanctions prevent Cuba from engaging with international financial institutions and further isolate the country economically,” Gafoor noted.
Marking 33 years since the UN General Assembly began passing resolutions against the US blockade, ASEAN renewed its call for an end to the policy.
“It is time for a reset. We urge both sides to engage in open and constructive dialogue, based on mutual respect and common interest,” Gafoor stated.
ASEAN concluded its statement by aligning with the broader international community in demanding the end of the unilateral blockade and the removal of Cuba from the US terrorism list.
Today the U.S. stood alone at the U.N once again defending a genocidal blockade that strangles Cuba’s right to live. The world raises its voice to lift it, yet the U.S. remains determined to make the Cuban people suffer. This collective punishment & cruelty is a moral disgrace… pic.twitter.com/eMKyePHPwK
— The People's Forum (@PeoplesForumNYC) October 28, 2025
