China's Vice President used the United Nations stage to call on the United States to stop pressure and lift sanctions on Cuba, and urged respect for the sovereignty of Arabian Gulf countries.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng responded to the United States in a speech to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday, 26 Sep 2026 GMT+7, stating that the sovereignty of Arabian Gulf countries should be respected and calling on "relevant countries" to end threats against Cuba and lift the economic blockade.
Han did not mention the U.S. by name during his speech. However, the U.S. has imposed pressure on Cuba, nearly cutting off oil exports to the island, while the U.S.-Iran conflict escalated following attacks by the U.S. and Israel in February.
This statement sharply contrasts with the friendly atmosphere last week when President Donald Trump hosted Chinese leader Xi Jinping with a grand state banquet and a fighter jet airshow.
"Great powers should bear special responsibilities to protect international peace and security, lead by upholding rules, adhering to the rule of law, and doing what is right," Han said. "China believes the sovereignty and security of countries in the Middle East, including the Arabian Gulf region, should be respected."
The U.S. Ambassador to China revealed on Friday that Trump warned Xi Jinping against assisting Iran during talks in Washington and received assurances that China would not do so, amid reports that Beijing has provided Tehran with weapons support.
Regarding Cuba, Han said, "China calls on the relevant countries to immediately stop using coercion against Cuba and to completely and immediately lift the blockade and sanctions on Cuba."
Cuba's aging power generation system faces severe strain from fuel shortages and long-neglected infrastructure, but the U.S. oil embargo, starting in January, has worsened electricity outages and caused multiple system failures.
Han also used this speech to present China as a reliable global partner and a steadfast defender of developing countries.
"China regards all countries, large or small, as equal members of the global community, and world affairs should be managed through joint consultation."
Source:cna