Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla expressed on Saturday that the Cuban government is open to engaging in a "constructive dialogue" with the United States, emphasizing the importance of doing so without external "interference."
"We are prepared for a serious and responsible conversation with the U.S. government, provided there is no interference in internal affairs or the respective political, economic, and social systems," Rodríguez stated during the High-Level Forum of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (Celac) and Africa, held in Bogotá, as reported by EFE.
Throughout his speech, Rodríguez Parrilla reiterated the regime's typical rhetoric.
He emphasized Cuba's unwavering defense of its sovereignty and criticized the heightened U.S. sanctions.
"We witness today the resurgence of aggressive imperialist practices, either blatantly or thinly veiled under modern rhetoric. The doctrine of peace through strength, championed by Washington, is essentially a new form of domination, military interventions, threats, and use of force," he declared.
Additionally, Rodríguez called for support from Latin American and African nations for Cuba's medical missions, asserting that "no smear campaign can erase the proven and significant impact of Cuba's collaboration across regions for over six decades, particularly in healthcare."
Earlier in the week, the island's foreign minister accused the United States of attempting to "destroy the constitutional order and seize control of the country," following recent statements by former President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding Cuba.
"The U.S. threatens to dismantle Cuba's constitutional framework and take control," Rodríguez Parrilla wrote on social media.
He also highlighted that "the collective punishment imposed on Cubans will not diminish the full exercise of sovereignty nor the creativity in facing the blockade and energy siege," warning that "any imperialist aggression will meet the Cuban people's unwavering resolve to defend their nation's independence."
The diplomat's statements are part of the Cuban leadership's response to a series of remarks made earlier in the week from Washington.
From the White House, Donald Trump labeled Cuba as a "failed state" and suggested the possibility of controlling the nation. "If I release it, I take it. I think I can do whatever I want with it," he said on Monday. He also described the island as lacking resources: "They have no money, no oil, they have nothing."
The following day, Secretary of State Marco Rubio asserted that the Cuban economy "doesn't work" and has survived due to external subsidies. "They need new leadership. They must undergo drastic changes," he stated, advocating for significant transformations in the country's leadership. Simultaneously, Trump endorsed ongoing contacts and assured that they would "do something very soon" regarding Cuba.
In response to these comments, Miguel Díaz-Canel also issued a statement accusing the United States of almost daily threats to overthrow Cuba's constitutional order.
Frequently Asked Questions About U.S.-Cuba Relations
What is the current stance of Cuba on dialogue with the U.S.?
Cuba is open to a serious and responsible dialogue with the United States, provided there is no interference in internal affairs or political systems.
How has the Cuban government responded to U.S. sanctions?
The Cuban government has criticized the intensified U.S. sanctions, asserting that they will not weaken Cuba's sovereignty or its resilience in facing the blockade and energy constraints.
What accusations have been made by Cuban officials against the U.S.?
Cuban officials have accused the U.S. of attempting to destroy the constitutional order and seize control of Cuba, as well as imposing collective punishment on its people.