Cuba Expresses Gratitude to China for Firm Stance Against U.S. Policies

Cuban Foreign Minister Thanks China for Anti-U.S. Stance

Havana, Cuba – Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla on November 28, 2025, publicly expressed Cuba's gratitude to China for its 'firm and sustained stance' against what he described as hostile United States policies. The minister's remarks, shared via his X account and reported by Cuban state media, specifically highlighted China's opposition to the U.S. economic blockade and Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.

China's Consistent Advocacy for Cuba

China has consistently voiced strong opposition to U.S. sanctions and policies targeting Cuba. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun recently urged the United States to 'heed the international community's call for justice' and 'immediately lift its blockade and sanctions against Cuba,' as well as remove Cuba from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. These statements followed a preliminary report by a United Nations Special Rapporteur Alena Douhan, which indicated that U.S. sanctions have had 'serious impacts on Cuba's economy and humanitarian situation' and violate international law.

China's support extends beyond rhetoric, with officials like Foreign Minister Wang Yi affirming that China 'will continue to steadfastly support the Cuban people's just struggle against external interference and blockade.' China views the U.S. blockade as a 'profound disaster' for Cuban society and a violation of international norms.

The U.S. Policies: Blockade and Terrorism Designation

The U.S. economic embargo against Cuba has been in place for over 60 years, significantly impacting the island's economy and its ability to trade freely. This blockade not only restricts direct U.S.-Cuba trade but also penalizes third countries engaging in economic activities with Cuba.

Cuba's designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (SSOT) has a complex history. Originally designated in 1982, Cuba was removed from the list in May 2015 by the Obama administration. However, in January 2021, during the final days of the first Trump administration, the U.S. State Department re-designated Cuba as an SSOT. More recently, on January 14, 2025, President Joe Biden attempted to rescind this designation, but this action was reversed by President Donald Trump shortly after his inauguration on January 20, 2025, effectively reinstating Cuba's SSOT status.

Deepening Cuba-China Bilateral Relations

The relationship between Cuba and China is characterized by strong political and economic ties, often described by Chinese officials as being between 'good friends, good comrades, and good brothers.' China has become Cuba's largest trading partner and a crucial ally, providing assistance and deepening cooperation across various sectors. High-level exchanges are frequent, with both nations committed to building a 'China-Cuba community with a shared future.' This solidarity is rooted in shared socialist ideals and a mutual stance against external interference in sovereign affairs.