Miguel Díaz-Canel stated that the United States government can participate in the Cuban economy, but made it clear that it will not allow any challenges to the political system of the island or its sovereignty.
The statements were made in an interview granted to former Spanish Vice President Pablo Iglesias and published in Canal Red, where he discussed the recent contacts between Havana and Washington amid international pressure to stimulate reforms.
The leader stated that there are "thousands of topics" on which both countries can engage in dialogue, including foreign investment, migration, scientific cooperation, the environment, and security. He highlighted among them the possible U.S. participation in the Cuban economy.
However, he set clear boundaries by stating that issues such as sovereignty, independence, and the political system "are not up for discussion," deeming any attempt at interference in these areas as "unacceptable."
The statements come in a context where the President of the United States, Donald Trump, and Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, have insisted on the need for economic reforms in Cuba, pointing to the socialist model as the cause of the crisis.
Díaz-Canel acknowledged that a potential negotiation process would be long and complex, as it would involve establishing communication channels, defining common agendas, and moving towards agreements that reduce confrontation between the two countries.
"We do not want war, we want dialogue," he stated, although he also assured that he would be willing to give "his life for the revolution" in the event of a military aggression.
The Cuban leader also noted that the island has not received fuel in recent months and attributed the energy crisis and blackouts to external restrictions, despite the structural deterioration of the national electrical system.
He also noted that former president Raúl Castro remains attentive to the country's political situation and maintains frequent communication with the current leadership.
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