Tilvin Silva, General Secretary of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a key faction of the current Sri Lankan government led by President Anura Kumara Dissanyake, signed a petition opposing the recent U.S. decision to designate Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. This event took place during a tribute to the revolutionary figure Che Guevara, held to commemorate the anniversary of his death.
The tribute, attended by a diverse group of supporters, featured a banner urging an end to the U.S. economic blockade of Cuba and calling for the country’s immediate removal from the terrorism list. Participants expressed solidarity with Cuba, emphasizing its struggle against imperialism and its ongoing commitment to social justice.
Cuba’s designation by the U.S. as a state sponsor of terrorism dates back to 1982, largely due to its historical ties to leftist movements and support for revolutionary activities in Latin America and beyond. The recent reaffirmation of this designation has been met with criticism from various international actors, including the United Nations and numerous human rights organizations, which argue that it undermines Cuba’s sovereignty and exacerbates the humanitarian crisis faced by its citizens.
During the event, Silva articulated his party’s stance, highlighting the importance of international solidarity in combating oppressive policies and advocating for the rights of nations to self-determination. “Cuba has faced decades of unjust sanctions and hostility, and it is imperative that we stand together to denounce these actions,” he stated.
