United Nations Radio

The UN General Assembly voted for the 18th consecutive year to condemn the United States embargo against Cuba.

Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla

The resolution this year was adopted with 187 votes for, 3against -- by the United States, Israel and Palau -- and 2abstentions, by the Marshall Islands and Micronesia.

Speaking before the vote, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, noted that the embargo prevents the purchase of medical equipment and medicines that could save many lives. He said it also constrains connectivity and access to new technologies and limits cultural exchange. The Foreign Minister added that 76 percent of Americans oppose the embargo against Cuba and US President, Barack Obama, has a historic opportunity to lead the change to end the measure.

Susan Rice

US Ambassador Susan Rice, also speaking before vote, said the Obama administration has taken steps to reach out to the Cuban people and has promoted family visits and the free flow of information, as well as expanded the list of humanitarian items that can be donated. But she said the draft resolution did not acknowledge this new chapter.

"We believe that any resolution commenting on the relationship between Cuba and the United States of America should reflect these constructive developments. Sadly, the resolution under discussion fails in that regard. And regrettably, the government of Cuba has not yet reciprocated these important steps taken by my government."

Ms. Rice added that the US economic relationship with Cuba is a bilateral issue.

Bissera Kostova, UN Radio.

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