Havana, April 30 (RHC)-- Cuba has condemned violent actions over the past several days in Nicaragua, aimed at destabilizing the Central American nation.  A statement issued by the Cuban Foreign Ministry (MINREX) also reaffirms Cuba's support for and solidarity with the Nicaraguan people and their constitutional President Daniel Ortega.

The foreign ministry specifically expressed Cuba's support for ongoing efforts by the people and the government, led by President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo, to advance dialogue toward preserving peace and stability in Nicaragua.

Violent protests have claimed the lives of at least 38 people. On April 18, demonstrations against social security reforms – which has since been repealed by the Nicaraguan government– had flared up.

The MINREX statement highlights the social, economic and safety achievements of the Nicaraguan people under the ruling Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN).

It also renewed Cuba's commitment “to the proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace,” signed in 2014 by the heads of the State of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (Celac) and rejected "interference in the internal affairs of Nicaragua.”

Religious leaders have advocated peace, with the Catholic Church agreeing to mediate talks between the Nicaraguan government and the private business sector.

The business sector, however, is continuing to call for more street protests. 

The Nicaraguan Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into the protests.