Maduro Declares ALBA-TCP as a Counterbalance to U.S. Influence in Latin America
During the XIII Extraordinary Summit of ALBA-TCP, President Nicolas Maduro proclaimed that Latin America and the Caribbean are key battlegrounds between progressive movements and “the dark, reactionary projects of the U.S. empire,” reports 24brussels.
Maduro characterized the alliance as “a permanent pulse,” highlighting its vitality and continuous collaboration among member governments. He praised ALBA-TCP as a vehicle for peace aimed at reducing inequality and poverty, fostering social, cultural, educational, economic, and commercial cooperation, and addressing the climate emergency and natural disasters faced by the region.
Despite the virtual nature of the summit, Maduro asserted its importance for assessing “the turbulent conjuncture we face on the continent.” He introduced concrete regional initiatives focused on migration, agro-food sovereignty, and collective infrastructure.
One of the key announcements was the establishment of a special fund within the ALBA Bank aimed at supporting the safe return and reintegration of migrants, underlining the necessity of respecting their human rights and complying with international standards. Additionally, Maduro chastised a “corrupt clique” of opposing figures, including Juan Guaido, Leopoldo Lopez, and Lilian Tintori, who he claims are supported by USAID to undermine Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Maduro outlined ALBA-TCP’s strategy to bolster regional self-sufficiency, which includes acquiring a refrigerated ship and cargo aircraft for the transport of food and humanitarian aid among member states. He remarked, “We recovered what was stolen from us: the ALBA airplane was destroyed,” while recalling past conflicts with foreign powers.
Additional proposals included the integration of airlines, the establishment of a regional fishing fleet, and the “Alba Azul” sustainable aquaculture initiative led by Minister Juan Carlos Loyo. Maduro also urged the hosting of AgroALBA fairs in member nations such as Nicaragua, Cuba, and Bolivia to encourage investment in food production.
In scientific and technological advancements, Maduro revealed plans to launch an intra-ALBA Research and Application Center for Artificial Intelligence. He called for a ministerial meeting from various sectors, including Agriculture, Transport, and Science, in the first week of March to finalize action plans for migration, agro-food systems, transportation, and technological innovation, although he did not specify budgets or timelines.
In a conclusion marked by urgency, Maduro stated, “We must remove obstacles and turn agreements into reality,” as he called for a united front to protect the region from external threats.
