Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated at a press conference that “cooperation between China and Cuba is legitimate and transparent” when asked whether Beijing considered itself the target of Washington’s statements.
Lin added that “fabricating pretexts, spreading rumors, and defaming others cannot serve as justification” for the “brutal blockade and illegal sanctions” imposed by the United States on Cuba.
These measures “cannot hide” the fact that Washington has “seriously violated the island’s rights to survival and development” and “the basic norms of international relations,” according to the official.
The spokesperson reiterated that China “will firmly support Cuba in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security” and urged the United States to “immediately end the blockade, sanctions, and any form of coercion and pressure” against the country.
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Rubio stated in an interview that the United States “will not allow” countries considered adversaries to conduct intelligence operations or establish military bases near its territory.
The statements come amid growing pressure from Washington on Havana, which includes sanctions and warnings about possible additional measures, as well as recurring accusations regarding the island’s cooperation with other countries in strategic areas.
China has repeatedly denounced what it calls “coercive diplomacy” by the United States toward Cuba and reiterated its support for the island in defending its sovereignty, opposing unilateral sanctions and any form of interference in its internal affairs.
