Cuban president says dialogue with U.S. possible, but difficult-Xinhua

Cuban president says dialogue with U.S. possible, but difficult

Source: Xinhua

Editor: huaxia

2026-04-13 08:55:15

HAVANA, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said that dialogue with the United States is possible but difficult, citing decades of tensions between the two countries.

In an interview with NBC aired Sunday, Diaz-Canel said Cuba is willing to engage with Washington on issues such as migration, drug trafficking and security, but only based on "respect and equality."

He expressed concerns about recent U.S. rhetoric, criticizing U.S. sanctions and claiming they have exacerbated economic hardships on the island, particularly by causing fuel shortages.

While rejecting claims that Cuba is on the brink of collapse, he acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the population.

Despite ongoing tensions, Diaz-Canel emphasized that Cuba remains open to fostering a "civilized" and cooperative relationship with the United States.