Cuban President Miguel Mario Díaz-Canel Bermúdez voiced strong support for Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy and denounced U.S. intervention in Iranian affairs during a meeting with Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf.

Why it matters:

The Cuban President's remarks during his meeting with Qalibaf indicate the alignment of the two countries' positions, particularly in confronting American and Western imperialism, as well as the growing relations between the two countries.

The big picture:

The meeting between Díaz-Canel and Qalibaf comes amid heightened tensions in West Asia and Latin America, where both nations have faced sanctions and political isolation from the United States. This interaction reflects a broader strategy of fostering alliances among countries that resist U.S. influence.

What he is saying:

Díaz-Canel stated, "We condemn the provocations of the United States and interference in Iran's internal affairs. We believe that the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA was a mistake, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy is the right of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which we recognize."

He also emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation between Cuba and Iran, particularly in light of their shared experiences with imperialist sanctions.

Díaz-Canel highlighted the necessity of ongoing cooperation to implement agreements between the two nations.

The Cuban president expressed appreciation for Iran's support in international forums against U.S. sanctions.

Key points:

  • The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Cuba and Iran.
  • Both leaders discussed the significance of past visits, including a trip by Iran's late President Raisi to Cuba in 2023.

Go deeper:

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