Panama offered its territory as a space for negotiations between the United States and Cubawith the aim of facilitating a dialogue that allows progress towards a democratic process on the island, in the midst of the differences between both countries due to the US economic, commercial and financial embargo.
The approach was presented by the Ambassador of Panama to the United Nations (UN), Eloy Alfarowho reiterated the Panamanian position in favor of the resolution that requests an end to the restrictions imposed by Washington, but insisted on the need to move towards democratic institutions in Cuba.
“We call on the Cuban authorities to commit to a process aimed at achieving democratic institutions, based on full respect and compliance with human rights, and citizen participation.”Alfaro said.
The diplomat pointed out that Panama trusts that these efforts will contribute to strengthening the ties of trust between Cuba and the international community.
Panama supports the end of the embargo on Cuba
The Panamanian position occurred this Wednesday, October 28, when the UN General Assembly approved a new resolution that calls for ending the United States economic, commercial and financial embargo against Cuba.
The initiative obtained 130 votes in favor, 17 against and 25 abstentions, a significant reduction compared to 2025, when it received 165 votes in favor, seven against and 12 abstentions. This year’s result represents the lowest support for the resolution since 1995.
Panama voted in favor of the text, which Cuba has presented since 1992 to demand the lifting of US restrictions. The resolution is non-binding, so it expresses the position of the General Assembly, but does not legally obligate the United States to lift the embargo.
In this context, Panama reiterated its solidarity with the Cuban people and expressed its wishes for peace, well-being and democratic prosperity for the countries of the continent.
Panama asks for dialogue and respect for Cuban sovereignty
Alfaro maintained that any progress towards a democratic process in Cuba must occur through respectful dialogue between the parties, without ignoring the independence, sovereignty and right of self-determination of the Cuban people.
According to the ambassador, it is up to the Cubans themselves to define the course of their future through a democratic process and without external interference.
“We believe that differences between States should be addressed through dialogue, mutual understanding and cooperation, always prioritizing those avenues that alleviate the difficulties of the population and expand their development opportunities.”he stated.
Panama’s offer seeks to open a space to bring closer positions between Washington and Havana, in a scenario marked both by economic restrictions and by differences over the political situation and human rights in Cuba.
The Panamanian position thus combines support for lifting the embargo with the call for a democratic transition, respect for human rights and the search for solutions through negotiation.
