US Has No Moral Standing to Preach Human Rights: Diaz-Canel

"The United States has no morals where human rights are concerned", Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel quipped Tuesday after Washington’s demanded the release of U.S. prisoners in Cuba.

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On Monday, Diaz-Canel received a letter from U.S. Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, Monday requesting “substantial” explanations behind the sustained imprisonment of eight U.S detainees in Cuba who were slated for release under his predecessor, Raul Castro.

The demand was delivered on the nation’s commemorative day celebrating human rights.

From Twitter, Diaz-Canel wrote, “USA has no moral standing to discuss human rights- its speech is hypocritical, dishonest with double standards. Does anyone know a more cruel, prolonged and massive violation of human rights, than the economic, financial and commercial blockade to Cuba?

"While others export weapons and wars, Cuba shares knowledge and services. Our doctors and teachers have illuminated remote regions. Our motto is solidarity," he said, without revealing any plans about the prisoners.

Cuban Foreign Minister to the United States, Carlos Fernandez de Cossio, said the letter was a propaganda stunt and if the U.S. were serious about initiating a bilateral dialogue to discuss any concerns over human rights, the neighboring nations could work past their differences.

“If the United States were truly interested in the human rights of Cubans, it would not impose a criminal economic blockade that punishes the entire nation, nor would it put increasing obstacles to orderly emigration, nor to the consular services on which dozens of people depend," the foreign minister said.