Background on Key Players and Context
The Summit of the Americas, scheduled to take place during the first week of December in the Dominican Republic, has once again excluded Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba from the list of invited countries. The Dominican Republic, which assumed the presidency pro tempore of the Summit of the Americas in 2023, explained that this year’s decision is based on a strictly multilateral criterion amidst political polarization and with the aim of prioritizing the summit’s success.
Who are these countries and why are they relevant?
- Venezuela: A South American country experiencing political and economic turmoil since 2013, with allegations of election fraud and human rights abuses.
- Nicaragua: A Central American nation governed by President Daniel Ortega since 2007, accused of suppressing political opposition and violating human rights.
- Cuba: An island nation in the Caribbean with a communist government since 1959, facing international criticism for human rights violations and political repression.
The Dominican Republic’s Decision and Reactions
The Dominican Republic, which maintains bilateral relations with each of these countries, clarified that its relationship with Cuba is uninterrupted, cordial with Nicaragua, and suspended with Venezuela following the denunciation of electoral fraud in recent elections. The Dominican government has not recognized the legitimacy of Venezuela’s last two presidential elections, which were deemed fraudulent by the opposition and several countries.
Cuba’s Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez, expressed deep concern and rejection of the decision imposed by the United States government on the Dominican Republic to exclude three countries, including Cuba, from the X Summit of the Americas. Rodríguez claimed that this decision represents a clear capitulation to unilateral brutal pressures from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Impact on Regional Relations and Future Summits
The exclusion of these countries from the Summit of the Americas reflects the ongoing tensions between democratic and authoritarian regimes in the region. This decision aims to ensure a successful summit by prioritizing participation from countries that uphold democratic values and human rights.
The Dominican Republic’s stance may further strain relations with the excluded countries, potentially leading to diplomatic repercussions. However, it also demonstrates the Dominican Republic’s commitment to fostering a more democratic and inclusive regional dialogue.
Key Questions and Answers
- Why were Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba excluded from the Summit of the Americas? These countries were left out due to their status as dictatorial regimes, according to the Dominican Republic organizers. The decision aims to prioritize democratic values and human rights at the summit.
- What are the bilateral relations between the Dominican Republic and these excluded countries? The Dominican Republic maintains uninterrupted relations with Cuba, cordial relations with Nicaragua, and suspended relations with Venezuela following electoral fraud allegations.
- How have the excluded countries reacted to their exclusion? Cuba’s Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez, expressed concern and rejection of the decision, claiming it represents a capitulation to U.S. pressures.
