At the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Moscow, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla delivered a powerful speech outlining Cuba’s commitment to South-South cooperation and its desire to forge closer ties with the influential bloc of emerging economies.
In his address, Parrilla extended Cuba’s gratitude for the invitation to participate in the meeting and congratulated the newly incorporated members – Ethiopia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Iran – on their admission into BRICS.
He hailed the expansion as a strategic move that enhances the group’s global relevance, representing over 45% of the world’s population and a third of the planet’s GDP.
Five key takeaways from Parrilla’s speech:
1. Cuba welcomes BRICS expansion: Parrilla praised the inclusion of new members, strengthening the group’s influence and bolstering its representation of the Global South’s interests.
2. Support for BRICS financial initiatives: He commended BRICS initiatives like the New Development Bank and currency reserve mechanisms as alternatives to the current “unjust, antidemocratic, speculative and exclusive” international financial system dominated by the US dollar.
3. Solidarity with Palestine: Cuba backed the BRICS call for an end to the “genocide in Palestine” and the recognition of Palestinian statehood with East Jerusalem as its capital, as well as the right of return for refugees.
4. Condemnation of sanctions against Russia: Parrilla condemned the unilateral coercive measures against Russia and NATO’s actions to escalate the conflict, likely referring to the Russia-Ukraine war.
5. Offer of cooperation: Cuba reiterated its willingness to share its experiences and expertise in areas like healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and education with BRICS nations for mutual benefit. Parrilla’s speech underscored Cuba’s determination to evaluate all possible avenues for a closer relationship with the BRICS, including the possibility of becoming a Partner State. He highlighted Cuba’s existing ties with BRICS members through initiatives like China’s Belt and Road and projects within the Eurasian Economic Union.
The Cuban Foreign Minister’s remarks resonated with the BRICS’ principles of promoting a fairer, more equitable, and sustainable multilateral order based on respect for state sovereignty and diversity. As the group’s influence continues to grow, Cuba seeks to align itself with these emerging powers and contribute to the reshaping of the global economic and political landscape.
