Question Period Note: Comments by the new Cuban Ambassador regarding the U.S. embargo.

• Canada has consistently voted in favour of Cuba's annual resolution at the UN General Assembly calling for an end to the U.S. embargo.
• Our opposition to the U.S. embargo is based on the principles of international law. The embargo also continues to be a barrier for Canadian companies wishing to do legitimate business with Cuba.
• At the same time, we share US concerns about the human rights situation in Cuba, in particular last summer's crackdown against peaceful protestors.
• We raise these concerns on every occasion with the Cuban government, most recently in a frank discussion between Minister Joli and her counterpart on the margins of UN General Assembly.
• We value our good relationships with both countries and believe in the importance of maintaining open dialogue on shared priorities and concerns.

No background material was provided.

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