Havana, February 19 (RHC)-- Russian Foreign Minister Serguei Lavrov stressed Monday the world's solidarity with Cuba in its fight against the U.S. blockade, as he met in Havana with his counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez.

He pointed out that, despite the almost unanimous support of the international community for the resolution presented at the UN by Cuba to denounce the economic, commercial and financial siege, Washington maintains this policy.

The head of Russian diplomacy affirmed that "the West tries to prevent the formation of a multipolar world in every possible way, through threats, the use of force and unilateral punitive measures, of which Cuba has been a victim," he said.

At the start of the official talks, the Russian foreign minister said: "We advocate mobilising the international community in solidarity with this country and we will seek compliance with the principles laid down in the UN Charter, including respect for the sovereignty of states.

Photo: Vladimir Molina

Lavrov expressed his intention to discuss with Rodriguez the development of multilateral relations between the two countries.

For his part, Bruno Rodríguez affirmed that the visit of his counterpart constitutes another step in the reinforcement of Cuba's exchange with the Russian Federation which, he said, we appreciate as a close ally with which we have historic relations.

"His presence here reaffirms the close ties between the two countries, which have many similarities in aspects of the international arena," said the Caribbean nation's foreign minister, who expressed his gratitude for Moscow's actions of solidarity with his country.

Earlier, Lavrov laid a wreath at the José Martí Memorial as part of his activities on the island, the first of his tour of Latin America, which also includes a visit to Venezuela and participation in the meeting of foreign ministers of the Group of 20 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.