On Monday, China reiterated its commitment to support the Cuban regime, urging the United States to lift sanctions and the embargo on the island. This move highlights Beijing's ongoing political backing for Havana, even as Washington intensifies its pressure campaign.
"China will continue to offer support and assistance to Cuba within its means, and we believe that under the leadership of the Communist Party and the Cuban Government, the people will overcome their temporary hardships," stated Guo Jiakun, the spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during a press conference in Beijing.
Guo, cited by the media outlet Actualidad RT, accused the United States of "violating international law" and "depriving the Cuban people of their right to survival and development," as well as "undermining regional peace and stability."
U.S. Sanctions and Economic Pressure
Beijing called on Washington to "immediately end the blockade" and the economic sanctions against Miguel Díaz-Canel's regime.
The spokesperson's remarks came shortly after Politico reported that the administration of President Donald Trump was considering a full blockade on oil imports to Cuba. This was part of a strategy to financially weaken the military and business apparatus controlled by General Raúl Castro and the conglomerate GAESA.
Washington has made it clear that its approach aims to suffocate the revenue sources of the Cuban regime and hasten the end of military control over the island's economy.
International Alliances and Support
Since Trump's return to the White House, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has spearheaded a regional pressure policy against the allies of the Cuban regime, including Venezuela and Nicaragua.
In recent years, China and Russia have become significant international partners for the Cuban government, providing loans, food, and technology in exchange for geopolitical influence in the Caribbean. On January 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping approved a new round of aid to the island, which includes emergency financial assistance valued at $80 million and a donation of 60,000 tons of rice.
Meanwhile, Moscow has described as "alarming" the reports regarding Trump's alleged plan to enforce a total naval blockade on Cuba.
In early January, both governments condemned the U.S. military operation in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
Impact of International Relations on Cuba's Economy
What is China's main reason for supporting Cuba?
China supports Cuba to strengthen geopolitical influence in the Caribbean and assist the Cuban government in overcoming economic difficulties.
How does the U.S. plan to pressure the Cuban regime?
The U.S. plans to impose a full blockade on oil imports to Cuba and cut off revenue streams to weaken the regime's military and economic control.
What kind of aid has China promised to Cuba?
China has pledged $80 million in emergency financial assistance and a donation of 60,000 tons of rice to Cuba.