Cuba signals economic reforms to protect social gains amid pressures

In addition to international accusations, Bruno Eduardo Rodriguez Paria described domestic steps Cuba is taking to respond to economic pressure and preserve social gains. He cited a July 30 session of the National People's Power Assembly where President Miguel Díaz-Canel presented a new program of practices, actors and economic concepts to adapt Cuba's model to current challenges.

Rodriguez Paria said the changes will be implemented "in a collective and democratic way in consultation with the people" and stressed they will not compromise national independence or social achievements. He presented the reforms as a response to the external pressures he detailed elsewhere in his speech and as part of a historical process of adaptation.