Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores MINREX

Overview

The Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores (MINREX) is the central governmental body responsible for managing the foreign relations of the Republic of Cuba. Established on December 23, 1959, following the Cuban Revolution, MINREX replaced the former Ministry of State, which was deemed inadequate to represent the nation's interests. The Ministry is tasked with formulating and executing Cuba's foreign policy, ensuring its alignment with national objectives and socialist principles. It operates under the authority of the Council of State and the National Assembly of People's Power.

1) Historical and Legal Framework

MINREX was constituted by a decree from the Revolutionary Government, reflecting the new administration's commitment to an independent and sovereign foreign policy. The Ministry's legal foundation is rooted in the Cuban Constitution, which mandates the state to conduct foreign relations based on respect for international law, sovereignty and the self-determination of peoples. Over the years, MINREX has undergone structural reforms to adapt to evolving diplomatic challenges and to strengthen Cuba's presence on the international stage.

2) Mission, Vision and Objectives

According to MINREX's official mission statement, the Ministry's primary responsibility is to propose, execute and oversee the implementation of Cuba's foreign policy. This encompasses defending the socialist homeland, promoting peace and upholding the principles of revolutionary diplomacy. The Ministry aims to:

• Safeguard Cuba's sovereignty and independence.
• Advance international cooperation and solidarity.
• Ensure efficient consular services for Cuban nationals abroad.
• Represent Cuba in international organizations and forums.
• Foster bilateral and multilateral relations that align with Cuba's strategic interests.

These objectives reflect MINREX's commitment to a foreign policy that prioritizes national dignity and global solidarity.

3) Governance, Structure and Independence

MINREX operates under the direct authority of the Council of State, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs appointed by the Council and ratified by the National Assembly of People's Power. The Ministry's organizational structure is designed to manage Cuba's diverse international relationships effectively:

• General Division for Latin America and the Caribbean (DGALC)
• General Division of Bilateral Affairs (DGAB)
• General Division for the United States (DGEEUU)
• Division of Multilateral Affairs and International Law (DGAMDI)
• General Division of Press, Communication and Image (DGPCI)
• General Division of Political Planning (DGPP)
• General Division of Consular Affairs and Cuban Residents Abroad (DACCRE)
• General Protocol Division (DP)
• Economic and Finance Division (DEF)
• Defense, Security and Protection Division (DDSP)
• Inspection Division (DI)
• Internal Audit Division (DAI)
• Independent Department of Human Resources (DIRRHH)
• Independent Legal Department (DIJ)
• Customer Service Group (GAP)

Additionally, MINREX oversees several subordinate and attached units, including:

• Cuban National Commission for UNESCO (CNCU)
• Center for Translation and Interpretation (ESTI)
• Raúl Roa García Higher Institute of International Relations (ISRI)
• International Policy Research Center (CIPI)

This structure ensures a comprehensive approach to managing Cuba's foreign relations and supports the Ministry's diplomatic initiatives.

4) Accreditation and Quality Evaluation

While MINREX primarily focuses on foreign policy and diplomatic affairs, it collaborates with other governmental bodies to ensure the quality and effectiveness of Cuba's international engagements. The Ministry works closely with institutions like the Raúl Roa García Higher Institute of International Relations (ISRI) to provide specialized training for diplomats and to conduct research on international relations. These collaborations contribute to the continuous improvement of Cuba's diplomatic capabilities and the quality of its foreign policy initiatives.

5) International Cooperation and Network Memberships

MINREX plays a pivotal role in fostering Cuba's international cooperation and participation in global networks. The Ministry represents Cuba in various international organizations, including:

• United Nations (UN)
• Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)
• Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC)
• Group of 77 (G77)
• World Trade Organization (WTO)

Through these memberships, MINREX advocates for Cuba's interests and engages in multilateral diplomacy to address global challenges. The Ministry also coordinates Cuba's participation in international conferences and dialogues, promoting solidarity and cooperation with other nations.

6) Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

MINREX's influence extends to higher education through its diplomatic initiatives and international collaborations. The Ministry's efforts in promoting academic exchange and cooperation contribute to the development of Cuba's higher education system. By facilitating partnerships with foreign universities and academic institutions, MINREX supports the internationalization of Cuban higher education, enhancing its global visibility and fostering the exchange of knowledge and expertise.

7) Summary

The Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores of Cuba is a cornerstone of the nation's foreign policy and international engagement. Through its structured governance, strategic objectives and active participation in global networks, MINREX upholds Cuba's sovereignty and promotes its interests on the world stage. The Ministry's collaborations with educational institutions further enrich Cuba's higher education system, ensuring that it remains responsive to global developments and continues to contribute to international discourse.

8) FAQs

• What is the role of the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores in Cuba?
  The Ministry is responsible for formulating and executing Cuba's foreign policy, representing the country in international forums and managing diplomatic relations with other nations.
• How is the Minister of Foreign Affairs appointed?
  The Minister is appointed by the Council of State and ratified by the National Assembly of People's Power.
• What are some key divisions within MINREX?
  Key divisions include the General Division for Latin America and the Caribbean, the General Division of Bilateral Affairs and the Division of Multilateral Affairs and International Law.
• Does MINREX have any affiliations with educational institutions?
  Yes, MINREX oversees the Raúl Roa García Higher Institute of International Relations, which provides training for diplomats and conducts research on international relations.
• How does MINREX contribute to Cuba's international cooperation?
  MINREX represents Cuba in various international organizations, coordinates participation in global conferences and fosters bilateral and multilateral relationships to promote cooperation and solidarity.

Organization Name

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores
Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Acronym

MINREX

Year of Establishment

23/12/1959

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

Calle G, No. 360, Vedado. Plaza de la Revolución
La Habana
Ciudad de la Habana Cuba

Phone

+53 (7) 836 4500

Fax

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores's Facebook page

X (Twitter)

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores's X page

LinkedIn

Not available

YouTube

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores's YouTube channel

Instagram

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores's Instagram page

Wikipedia Article

Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores's Wikipedia article

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