CHINA CALLS FOR RESPECT FOR GULF SOVEREIGNTY, DEMANDS END TO CUBA BLOCKADE

September 27, 2026

China criticised US policies at the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, calling for the sovereignty and security of Gulf countries to be respected and urging an end to threats and sanctions against Cuba.

Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng did not directly name the United States but said major powers have a responsibility to uphold international rules and international law. He stressed that disputes should be addressed through consultation and that the sovereignty and security of Middle Eastern countries, including those in the Gulf, should be respected.

On Cuba, Han called on the relevant country to stop using threats of force and to lift its blockade and sanctions. His remarks came amid a severe power crisis in Cuba, where the national electricity grid has recently suffered major disruptions.

Han also presented China as a supporter of multilateral cooperation, arguing that countries of all sizes should participate equally in addressing international issues. His remarks came only days after Chinese President Xi Jinping's meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, highlighting continuing differences between Beijing and Washington despite recent diplomatic engagement.