Cuban Ambassador Lianys Torres Rivera appeared on Politics Done Right to discuss her country, the effects of US sanctions, and much more.
Lianys Torres Rivera, Cuban Ambassador
Podcasts (Video — Audio)
In an informative conversation on “Politics Done Right,” the Cuban Ambassador to the United States, Lianys Torres Rivera, sheds light on the nuanced and often misunderstood realities of Cuba, offering a perspective that challenges mainstream narratives in the United States. Throughout the interview, Rivera eloquently articulates the transformative journey of Cuba since the 1959 revolution led by Fidel Castro, emphasizing the revolution’s foundational pillars: universal access to education and healthcare. This dialogue not only illuminates the strides made by Cuba in these areas but also confronts the crippling effects of the longstanding U.S. embargo on the nation.
Rivera’s narrative begins with a reflection on pre-revolutionary Cuba, describing a society marked by deep inequalities and limited access to essential services for the majority, under the oppressive regime of Fulgencio Batista. The revolution, she asserts, was a watershed moment that redirected the course of Cuban history towards a model that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens over the interests of the elite or foreign powers. The ambassador highlights the significant achievements in education and healthcare, underscoring the fact that these rights are enshrined and guaranteed to all Cubans, regardless of their socio-economic background.
However, the conversation does not shy away from addressing the challenges faced by Cuba, particularly the impact of the U.S. embargo, described by Rivera as a “blockade.” This embargo, instituted in February 1962, is characterized as the most comprehensive and enduring set of sanctions against any country. Rivera argues that these sanctions have severely hampered Cuba’s economic development, restricting access to international financial institutions, technology, and markets. She elucidates the peculiar and onerous restrictions imposed by the embargo, such as the prohibition on importing goods with more than 10% of U.S. components, which has had far-reaching implications for Cuba’s ability to modernize and sustain its economy.
The ambassador also addresses the misconception of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism, asserting that Cuba is a nation that cherishes peace and solidarity. She proudly recounts Cuba’s international humanitarian missions, particularly in healthcare, where Cuban doctors have provided much-needed services to over 100 countries. This, Rivera posits, is a testament to the Cuban people’s commitment to solidarity and human welfare, principles deeply ingrained in the nation’s ethos post-revolution.
The dialogue also touches upon the controversial issue of property nationalization post-revolution and the U.S.’s demand for reparations. Rivera provides context to this complex issue, explaining the circumstances and the economic constraints that have made it challenging for Cuba to comply with these demands. She calls for a forward-looking approach to U.S.-Cuba relations, one that emphasizes dialogue, cooperation on mutual concerns such as drug trafficking and human smuggling, and respect for each nation’s sovereignty.
In her concluding remarks, Ambassador Rivera reflects on the state of happiness among Cubans, acknowledging the difficulties imposed by external pressures and the embargo. Yet, she remains optimistic about Cuba’s resilience and its unwavering commitment to ensuring the basic needs of its people are met, despite the hardships.
This interview with Ambassador Lianys Torres Rivera presents a rare opportunity to hear the Cuban perspective, challenging prevailing perceptions in the U.S. about Cuba’s political and social systems. It underscores the importance of dialogue and understanding in overcoming decades of hostility and misconceptions, advocating for a relationship between the U.S. and Cuba that is based on mutual respect and cooperation.
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