10th CELAC Summit adopts declaration urging end to Cuba blockade

A declaration was adopted on Sunday after the closing of the 10th summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in Bogota, Colombia, calling on relevant countries to comply with the UN resolutions and end the economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla stated in his speech during the summit that Cuba is facing serious challenges and is engaged in a struggle for dignity and freedom.

The Cuban foreign minister also expressed Cuba's willingness to engage in serious and responsible dialogue with the United States on the basis of mutual respect, provided there is no interference in each other's internal affairs or political, economic and social systems.

In the declaration, the CELAC member countries reaffirmed the validity of the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace, the Orinoco Tribune.com reported. The Latin American media also reported that this reaffirmation stems from a collective commitment to guaranteeing regional stability and respect for the sovereignty of its peoples.