China Urges U.S. to Lift Blockade and Sanctions on Cuba Amid Rising Tensions

China Urges U.S. to Lift Blockade and Sanctions on Cuba Amid Rising Tensions

LN24 / 21 minutes

March 20, 2025

2 min read

China has strongly criticized the United States for its continued sanctions and blockade on Cuba, accusing Washington of using the issue of “forced labor” as a pretext to suppress dissidence. In a statement, Chinese officials called for the U.S. to end its punitive measures against Cuba, regardless of the rationale provided, and urged a shift towards diplomacy and cooperation.
This criticism follows the announcement by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio last month, which outlined the expansion of a visa restriction policy aimed at Cuban officials involved in a labor program that sends Cuban workers abroad, particularly in the healthcare sector. The U.S. has labeled this program as “forced labor,” a term Rubio used to justify the targeting of individuals and their immediate family members, suspected of being connected to the program.
The expanded U.S. sanctions have sparked further tensions between the two countries, with China arguing that the U.S. actions are not only unjust but also contribute to the further isolation of Cuba. China has long been a vocal supporter of Cuba, opposing U.S. sanctions and advocating for the lifting of the embargo, calling for greater international collaboration.
The continued U.S. sanctions and Cuba’s ongoing labor program remain key points of contention in U.S.-Cuba relations. As both Washington and Beijing continue to make their respective cases on the global stage, the call for an end to the blockade and sanctions on Cuba is expected to be a central issue in the diplomatic discussions moving forward.