European Pro-Castro Groups Demand Economic Support for Cuba Amid Crisis

Members of pro-Castro groups and regime supporters in Europe gathered in Paris at the headquarters of the French Communist Party. They pushed for increased aid to the Cuban regime that goes beyond propaganda support. They proposed economic solutions to counter the U.S. embargo.

Participants at the XIX European Continental Meeting of Solidarity with Cuba discussed the significance of economic cooperation as a vital support tool. This event comes during a severe crisis in Cuba, worsened by recent natural disasters and an energy collapse affecting all economic sectors.

Fernando González, president of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP) and a former spy, emphasized the regime’s focus on economic issues. He called the U.S. embargo a significant barrier that has lasted over 60 years.

González stated that the global political movement supporting the regime can help find solutions to the blockade by implementing beneficial local projects. He mentioned that these actions support the Cuban government in its challenges and highlighted the need for more group visits to the island.

Víctor Fernández, president of Cuba Coopération France, urged a combination of political and economic solidarity, citing the severe impact of the U.S. blockade. He noted that the Cuban authorities have identified priority areas for cooperation, including health, food, renewable energy, and tourism.

What are the main economic challenges currently facing Cuba, according to President Fernando González of ICAP?

Interview with Fernando González, President of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples (ICAP)

News Directory 3: Mr. González, thank you for joining us today. The recent gathering in Paris of pro-Castro groups highlighted the urgency of economic aid for Cuba. Can you elaborate on the current economic situation in Cuba and how this meeting aims to help?

Fernando González: Thank you for having me. Cuba is facing an unprecedented economic crisis, exacerbated by natural disasters and an ongoing energy collapse. The U.S. embargo has been a significant barrier for over 60 years, severely limiting our economic abilities. Our meeting in Paris was crucial as it focused on establishing practical, cooperative economic strategies that extend beyond mere propaganda. We believe that fostering international solidarity can lead to tangible support for our efforts to overcome these challenges.

News Directory 3: What kind of local projects do you believe could effectively address the blockade’s impact?

Fernando González: We are advocating for projects across various sectors such as health, food production, renewable energy, and tourism. These areas have been identified by the Cuban authorities as priorities. By implementing local projects in these fields, we can not only alleviate some of the hardships faced by our people but also provide sustainable growth that is less vulnerable to external pressures, including the blockade.

News Directory 3: Víctor Fernández from Cuba Coopération France also spoke about the need for a combination of political and economic solidarity. How do you see this approach influencing international relationships with Cuba?

Fernando González: Political support is indispensable in our struggle. It creates a conducive atmosphere for economic partnerships. By uniting politically, we can apply collective pressure on entities that hold power, allowing for a more favorable environment where bilateral projects can thrive. This solidarity demonstrates to international actors that Cuba is not isolated and has global backing, which is essential for our continued resilience.

News Directory 3: Some participants proposed specific initiatives, such as joint projects in renewable energy. How feasible are such collaborations given the current geopolitical climate?

Fernando González: While the geopolitical climate presents challenges, it is indeed feasible. Many European organizations and entities understand the importance of renewable energy and are eager to collaborate. By working together on shared interests, such as sustainable energy, we can forge partnerships that yield mutual benefits, mitigating the dire effects of the U.S. sanctions.

News Directory 3: Michele Curto mentioned the importance of unity in aiding Cuba. How do you envision strengthening this unity on an international scale?

Fernando González: Building unity requires consistent dialogue and cooperative initiatives. We need to foster relationships not just among pro-Castro groups, but also with progressive movements worldwide. Holding regular discussions and collaborative projects can create a robust network of support. The more we can coordinate our efforts, the stronger our resolve against the blockade will be, facilitating access to resources and ideas.

News Directory 3: what message would you like to convey to the international community regarding the situation in Cuba and the ongoing support for your government?

Fernando González: I urge the international community to recognize Cuba’s resilience in the face of adversity and the unjust nature of the U.S. embargo. Supporting Cuba is about standing for sovereignty, solidarity, and human rights. We invite all who believe in these principles to join us in creating projects that uplift our society. Together, we can build frameworks of cooperation that transcend political barriers and benefit all involved.

Thank you, Mr. González, for sharing your insights today. We appreciate your time and the important work you and your colleagues are doing.

Paco Calderón, president of the Spanish pro-Castro organization SODEPAZ, encouraged associations to develop joint projects with the Cuban government on renewable energy. Michele Curto, president of the Association for Cultural and Economic Exchange with Cuba, advocated for local development projects as a means to overcome the blockade.

Curto expressed confidence that European countries can assist Cuba and stressed that unity is essential for effective help.

For decades, the ICAP and its networks have amplified the regime’s propaganda worldwide, promoting a romanticized view of the Cuban Revolution.