At the CARICOM leadership summit in St. Kitts and Nevis, Cuban Ambassador to Belize Yahima Martínez Millán emphasized Cuba’s deepening regional partnerships despite ongoing US economic pressure. The diplomat characterized Cuba’s relationship with CARICOM nations as historically significant, describing the Caribbean region as “home” rather than merely a political sphere.
Ambassador Martínez Millán acknowledged CARICOM’s consistent support in condemning and seeking elimination of the US embargo, which she described as critically important for Cuba’s development. The bilateral relationship with Belize specifically was highlighted as exemplary, particularly in areas of healthcare cooperation and technical training programs that have spanned decades.
Regarding Cuba’s strategic response to external economic pressures, the ambassador identified energy sovereignty as the nation’s top priority. “We are accelerating all proposals to transition to renewable energy sources,” Martínez Millán stated, while acknowledging the technological and financial challenges exacerbated by the embargo.
The Cuban government is simultaneously pursuing diversified international partnerships, strengthening ties with the BRICS bloc and developing relationships across Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Additionally, Cuba is updating its economic model to include greater participation from non-state actors to enhance trade capabilities amid ongoing challenges.