Caracas, December 14, 2024 – “On this anniversary (the 20th of ALBA-TCP), we celebrate the past and look toward the future. In the face of the challenges posed by a world threatened by fascism and neo-fascism, ALBA is not merely an option; it is a necessity that must continue steadfastly, reaffirming its foundational principles of solidarity, justice, and cooperation. (…) ALBA is not just an alliance; it is a promise of the future, a living resistance, an instrument for the most dispossessed, and a reminder that together, as peoples, we are invincible.”

This was the statement by the President of Bolivia, Luis Arce, during his address at the 24th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Bolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our America–Peoples’ Trade Treaty (ALBA-TCP), held this Saturday in Caracas, Venezuela.

Arce emphasized that the embrace between Commanders Hugo Chávez of Venezuela and Fidel Castro of Cuba not only marked a historic moment but also symbolized the defeat of the hegemonic project represented by the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA).

“ALBA was born, placing the human being at its core and promoting the idea that a better world is possible. Bolivia reaffirms, once again, its commitment to ALBA-TCP, as it stands as a resistance raising its voice against the unjust and criminal blockade of Cuba. (…) ALBA is also a firm voice against the arbitrary and unilateral measures imposed on Venezuela and Nicaragua, measures that harm the well-being of our peoples.”