Bridgetown.
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Steven Blackett says the embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba has placed a burden on the lone Commumist state in the region, and on its relationship with CARICOM.
According to Blackett, in spite of these challenges, the relationship between Cuba and CARICOM has expanded rather than contracted in recent years.
"Although more costly, we have found ways to operate within the constraints while we continue to call for the removal of the measures. Despite significant ideological, cultural, economic and social challenges, the countries of CARICOM and Cuba have been able to count on each other steadfastness of purpose and goodwill over the years", Blackett said
He was speaking at the opening of a pannel discussion hosted by the University of the West Indies and the Cuban Embassy in Barbados, to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Cuba and CARICOM at the 3Ws Pavillion.
The agreement was signed between Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba on December 8, 1972.
