Cuba denounces impact of US blockade on culture at BRICS meeting

At a BRICS meeting of culture ministers in Bhopal, India, Cuban Ambassador Juan Marsán denounced the impact of the United States' economic, commercial, and financial blockade on Cuba's cultural and educational development. Marsán stated that the siege affects the functioning of institutions, the work of creators, and access to the technology and equipment necessary for heritage preservation and cultural projects.

Despite these limitations, Marsán emphasized that artistic education and cultural services continue through the commitment of the Cuban people. He expressed Cuba's readiness to strengthen cooperation within the BRICS bloc through artistic and academic exchanges, heritage protection, and new development opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a declaration establishing a framework for cultural cooperation among BRICS members. This framework aims to boost creative industries, exchange methodologies, support creators, and expand market access via digital tools. It also includes collaboration on UNESCO nominations, the restitution of cultural goods using AI-based tracking, and the safeguarding of traditional knowledge.