US sanctions is an opportunity not a threat; Cuban Ambassador
Cuban Ambassador to Iran Alexis Bandrich Vega expressed Iran and Cuba are under heavy sanctions, making it more difficult to run business, assuring that US sanctions will not prevent developing ties between the two countries.
In an exclusive interview, Mr. Alexis Bandrich Vega Cuban ambassador to Iran discussed a multitude of issues with ILNA correspondent, including the US policy towards Cuba, and even recent failure of some socialist governments as well as Tehran- Havana bilateral ties.
He said about military cooperation between Tehran and Havana and confirmed "Iran and Cuba have no military cooperation and neither side has shown interest in working in this field.”
“As for business issues, the Tehran-Havana business relation has been damaged since the end of 2017; one reason was the delay in repaying Cuba's debt to Iran, a problem that is being resolved.”
Cuban diplomat said US sanctions against Cuba have increased in recent years. We have always tried to maintain good relations with Iran and hoped that two countries will overcome the economic sanctions with self-reliance exploring capacities of their national economy.
“I believe sanctions against Iran and Cuba is an opportunity, not a threat. This is an opportunity to further develop relations between the two countries.”
“We tried to communicate with Iranian companies and explain the commercial and political conditions of Cuba. For example, we held an exhibition in Havana and invited Iranian companies to participate in the fair,” Bandrich Vega added.
“Iranian companies are not afraid of trading with Cuban companies, and of course our companies have a similar approach to Iranian companies.”
Cuban diplomat highlighted good political relations based on anti-imperialist approach and respecting sovereignty and independence of every state.
He referred to impeachment of President Donald Trump, and said that “Trump impeachment could certainly have a positive impact on relations between Washington and Havana But it all depends on what approach the future US government takes.
“I personally believe that even if Trump abandons his hostile approach, relations between the two countries can improve,” he added.
Bandrich Vega confirmed we have always said that Cuba is ready to talk to any government in America, but we have one condition: equality, mutual respect, and maintaining independence and freedom. We have no other preconditions. The United States cannot expect Cuba to change its principles.
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