Laura Fernández Delgado, who is soon to take office as Costa Rica's president, has publicly supported and claimed responsibility for the decision to shut down the Costa Rican embassy in Cuba and demand the removal of Cuban diplomatic personnel from San José.
The announcement, made by President Rodrigo Chaves on Wednesday, prompted an immediate reaction from Miguel Díaz-Canel. The Cuban leader argued that the move was a result of "obvious pressure from the United States government," describing it as an effort to isolate Cuba internationally.
Despite these claims, Fernández stated in an interview with Noticias Trivisión that the decision was based on political principles rather than external coercion.
Commitment to Human Rights
"This was a decision made to prioritize the human dignity of the Cuban people. Costa Rica exemplifies freedom and democracy on a global scale. I was involved in the decision to close our embassy in Cuba," she asserted.
Set to assume the presidency on May 8, Fernández emphasized that "Costa Rica will not tolerate human rights violations." She further noted that "the country is taking the correct step," supporting the decision made by President Chaves as her own.
Internal Lessons from Cuba
Using the situation in Havana as a cautionary tale, Fernández warned, "What is happening in Cuba should serve as a lesson for our nation, especially for the younger generation. Witness what a leftist, communist regime can do to its people."
She also addressed the Cuban community living in Costa Rica directly.
"The Cuban people residing here should feel assured. This decision does not imply they are unwelcome. Approximately 10,000 Cubans live in Costa Rica, many of whom have sought refuge. They can remain at ease," Fernández emphasized.
Diplomatic Adjustments
Costa Rican Foreign Minister Arnoldo André announced that diplomatic personnel from both nations have until the end of March to depart.
Starting April 1, relations will be confined to consular matters, with Costa Rican consular services for Cuba being managed from Panama. The embassy in Havana has been without staff since February 5.
The Cuban regime condemned the decision as "arbitrary, unjustified, and unilateral." Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla claimed that Costa Rica is acting "in submission to the U.S. policy against Cuba" and predicted the measure would "fail."
This diplomatic split from Costa Rica follows Ecuador's expulsion of Cuban diplomatic officials on March 4, which experts view as part of a regional trend to isolate the Havana regime.
Frequently Asked Questions about Costa Rica-Cuba Relations
Why did Costa Rica decide to close its embassy in Cuba?
Costa Rica's decision was driven by political principles emphasizing human rights, rather than external pressures, as stated by President-Elect Laura Fernández Delgado.
What will happen to Cuban residents in Costa Rica?
Cuban residents in Costa Rica, including those who have sought refuge, will continue to be welcome and should not worry about the diplomatic changes.
How will Costa Rica manage consular services for Cuba?
After April 1, Costa Rica's consular services for Cuba will be handled from Panama, as diplomatic relations will be limited to consular activities.