Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa-Herald Reporter
THE Cuban Embassy and the Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust have reaffirmed their commitment to one another despite facing illegal sanctions imposed by Western countries.
This follows a recent meeting between the National Assembly of the People’s Power and the Council of State of the Republic of Cuba president Juan Esteban Lazo Hernández and President Mnangagwa emphasising the need for stronger ties between the two nations.
Cuban Ambassador to Zimbabwe Susellys Perez Mesa said President Mnangagwa rejected the terrorism policy against Cuba.
“We appreciate the solidarity of Zimbabwe, which has consistently rejected the policy against Cuba and its inclusion on the list of State sponsors of terrorism. The triumph of the Zim-Cuba bilateral relationship to the Cuban Revolution, and the process of nationalisation showcase the power to unite against sanctions,” she said.
The ambassador said more than 80 percent of the Cuban population was born under the effects of the blockade.
“The blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba for more than six decades has had a profound economic, social and political impact on Cuba hindering access to technology, medicine, food and other essential resources.
“Since the US sanctions deteriorate the standard of living of the population, we will continue to work towards a future where Cuba and Zimbabwe can develop without external interference,” she added.
The Cuban Embassy in Zimbabwe praised the social and political life of Ernesto Che Guevara by renaming Late Commander-in-Chief Fidel Castro Ruz along Fidel Castro Road in Harare.
Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust President Dr Norbert Hosho emphasised that sanctions have contributed to a decline in economic growth, increased inflation and widespread unemployment.
“The restrictions on financial transactions have hampered the government’s ability to fund critical services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
“This has led to a deterioration in the quality of these services, affecting the well-being of citizens,”he said.
He added that Cuba offers a valuable point of comparison.
“Like Zimbabwe, Cuba has faced decades of sanctions imposed by the United States, Cuban experience provides insights into the resilience and challenges of navigating such restrictions.
“Studying Cuba’s experience can offer valuable lessons for Zimbabwe, particularly in areas such as import substitution, diversification of trade partners and the development of local industries.
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