Cuba President Díaz‑Canel Calls for Economic Independence, Recognizes Past Reliance

Cuban leader Miguel Díaz‑Canel told RT en Español that Cuba must move toward economic independence, saying the island “has to be capable of not being reliant on anyone” after decades of dependence on the former Soviet Union, China and Venezuela. He defended a package of 176 economic measures announced to the National Assembly, acknowledging that the Special Period reforms – such as de‑penalising foreign currency holdings – introduced capitalist practices that created social inequalities, a rise in prostitution and drug‑related problems.

He also defended ongoing negotiations with the United States, noting that despite U.S. pressure to deter investors, “many people and companies from Latin America, Europe and Asia are willing to invest in Cuba.” Díaz‑Canel reiterated Cuba’s right to trade and buy fuel internationally, rejecting the notion that the U.S. blockade can dictate the island’s policies.

These statements underscore the government's effort to balance limited market openings with the party’s control while confronting a deep economic and energy crisis.