China has reiterated its demand for the United States to end its decades-long economic embargo against Cuba, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning urging Washington to 'immediately stop its blockade, sanctions, and any form of coercion' during a press briefing in Beijing on Friday, April 10, 2026.
The appeal comes as Cuba faces renewed economic challenges exacerbated by global supply chain pressures. Mao emphasized that unilateral sanctions 'violate international law and the basic norms of international relations,' adding that China will 'continue to firmly support Cuba in safeguarding its sovereignty and opposing external interference.'
Analysts note the timing aligns with increased Chinese engagement in Latin America, where Beijing has expanded trade partnerships and infrastructure investments this year. The Chinese mainland recently became Cuba's largest trading partner, with bilateral trade growing 12% year-on-year in Q1 2026.
This development occurs amid ongoing discussions at the United Nations General Assembly, where 2026 marks the 34th consecutive year that the body will vote on a resolution condemning the U.S. embargo against Cuba. China has consistently voted in favor of the measure.
