The Cuban leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, expressed his support for the protests in Argentina against the policies of President Javier Milei, stating that "we all have to stand up" in defense of just causes and against any form of aggression.
The statements from the Cuban leader were made during the Coloquio Patria, an event held last week in Havana that brought together militants and supporters of the left. There, Díaz-Canel emphasized that Latin America must invest in its own technological and strategic development to confront external impositions.
"We must have technological sovereignty [...] Latin America is too talented not to be able to achieve these things. Let us never underestimate the talent of our fellow citizens. If we root that talent in our history, our principles, humanism, and the desire to build a better world, we will succeed. There is no impossible battle for us," stated Díaz-Canel.
In that same context, the Cuban leader emphasized the need for an "anti-hegemonic offensive" based on creative resistance, solidarity among nations, and international condemnation of any form of aggression.
"If the Argentine people are marching these days in response to what they are suffering, we all have to join in," he said amid applause, referring to the demonstrations against the cuts implemented by Milei.
The recent protests in Argentina have been called by unions and social organizations in opposition to the government's pension policies under President Javier Milei.
Since his arrival to power in December 2023, Milei has promoted a series of radical economic measures aimed at reducing the fiscal deficit and liberalizing the economy, which has created significant tensions with opposition sectors.
However, Díaz-Canel's defense of the protests in Argentina contrasts with the policy of the Cuban government, which has systematically repressed any expression of dissent in its own country.
During the protests on July 11, 2021, in Cuba, thousands of citizens took to the streets to demonstrate against the economic crisis, food shortages, and lack of freedoms.
The government's response was a harsh crackdown, with hundreds arrested, summary trials, and sentences of up to 25 years in prison for the protesters, as documented by human rights organizations and independent media.
Despite the Cuban government denouncing repression in other countries, within the island it does not allow any form of protest or criticism of the political system.
In recent years, activists, artists, and independent journalists have been victims of arbitrary arrests, extreme surveillance, and restrictions on mobility.
The case of the San Isidro Movement and the protests on November 15, 2021, which were thwarted by the government through heavy militarization of the streets and preventive detentions, reflect the double standards of Díaz-Canel.
Frequently asked questions about Díaz-Canel's statements and the protests in Argentina
Why does Díaz-Canel support the protests in Argentina against Javier Milei?
Díaz-Canel supports the protests in Argentina as a way to defend "just causes" and reject "external impositions." However, this stance contrasts with the repression of demonstrations in Cuba, where the government does not allow dissent. The protests in Argentina have been called in response to Milei's economic adjustment policies.
What criticisms are made of Díaz-Canel's government regarding its support for the protests in Argentina?
Díaz-Canel's support for the protests in Argentina has been criticized for his double standards. While he condemns the repression in Argentina, his own government suppresses protests in Cuba, as evidenced during the demonstrations on July 11, 2021, when over 1,300 people were imprisoned for peacefully protesting.
What has been the response of Milei's government to the protests in Argentina?
The government of Javier Milei has responded to the protests in Argentina with police repression, especially during demonstrations by retirees and unions that oppose his economic policies. Reports of arrests and the use of force have generated criticism both domestically and internationally.
What policies of Javier Milei have sparked protests in Argentina?
The policies of Javier Milei that have sparked protests include economic adjustments aimed at reducing the fiscal deficit and liberalizing the economy, which have impacted vulnerable sectors. These measures have been viewed as aggressive and have generated backlash among unions and social organizations.
What is the current economic situation in Cuba according to Díaz-Canel?
Díaz-Canel has acknowledged that 2024 has been a very challenging year for Cuba, marked by a deep economic, social, and political crisis. He insists that the country can overcome these difficulties through "creative resistance", although he has not provided concrete solutions to address the structural problems facing the nation.
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