The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Cuba to Azerbaijan, Carlos Enrique Valdés de la Concepción, gave an interview to Modern.az. The Ambassador spoke about the US intervention in Venezuela, the support they provide to Venezuela, and potential threats from the US.
We present the interview:
- Mr. Ambassador, as a result of Washington's latest operation against Venezuela, the president of that country and his wife were captured and taken to the US. Does Cuba feel threatened after such a step?
- For nearly 67 years, Cuba has been subjected to various threats from the US. This is nothing new for us. We have grown accustomed to living this way. Cuba feels ready to face the threats of US imperialism. We strongly condemned the aggression against Venezuela. We believe this is an illegal act. We consider the fact as the kidnapping of President Maduro and his wife. We demand Maduro's return to his country. Cuba is not afraid and intends to protect its sovereignty and independence.
- How is the security of the Cuban president organized after these events?
- The security of the Cuban president is currently organized at a very high level. The other day, he participated in a large event dedicated to Xuse Martinez. The Cuban people protect him very well. We want to live in peace. We want to have very good relations with the US. But under certain conditions. Cuba is ready to protect its sovereignty until the very last moment.
- If a proposal comes from the US regarding the establishment of economic relations, how would Cuba react to it?
- If the conditions are also suitable for us, we are always ready to maintain good relations. We have always worked on this issue. However, the US always sees Cuba as a good dessert and tries to take advantage of it. There have been instances where we showed good relations towards the US. But we will never bow our heads. They have kept us under blockade for 67 years. We have endured this aggressive attitude for 67 years.
- In what ways and directions are you currently providing support to the Venezuelan people?
- We have always provided great support to the Venezuelan people. For example, I can point out that our medical brigade is currently in Venezuela. Our teachers and sports coaches are active there and provide moral support. At the same time, we have also had military personnel there.
- Speaking of military personnel, what was the basis for their presence in Venezuela?
- Cuban soldiers who died in Venezuela operated there in accordance with the convention between the two countries. The officers there fought until their last breath for their missions. 32 of our soldiers and officers have died. We are very glad that we maintain solidarity relations with Azerbaijan and Venezuela.
