New york: President John Dramani Mahama has called for the removal of the blockade on Cuba. Speaking at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80), President Mahama emphasized the need for the United States to lift the embargo that has prevented US businesses and citizens from conducting trade or commerce with Cuban interests since 1960.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama highlighted the historical ties between Cuba and Africa, noting that the Cuban people have shed their blood on African soil in the fight against apartheid. He emphasized that Cuba has been, and continues to be, a faithful friend of Africa. In his address, the President also called for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council and a reset of the global financial architecture, which he stated is currently rigged against Africa. He advocated for Africa to have a greater say in the world's multilateral financial institutions.
President Mahama underscored the importance of the United Nations, describing it as the modern global village's town square. He lamented the erosion of communal spaces due to time and technology, pointing out that the internet, social media platforms, and artificial intelligence often reinforce isolation rather than connection. These platforms, he argued, serve alternative facts and manipulated images, making it easier to spread disinformation and create division.
The President expressed concern over the rise of nationalism and economic instability worldwide, citing a general breakdown of multilateralism and various acts of aggression against the sovereignty of nations. He warned that these conditions are reminiscent of those that led to the failure of the League of Nations in fulfilling its mandate.