The Government of Japan welcomes the measures taken by the Government of the Republic of Cuba to release prisoners, including political prisoners, in response to international opinion, especially that of the Vatican. In Cuba, however, there are continuing violations of human rights and fundamental freedoms, such as restrictions to the freedom of political activities, freedom of assembly and association, and freedom of expression.
Japan remains deeply concerned about that situation.
Japan has been urging the Government of Cuba to improve the human rights situation and hopes that the present release of prisoners will lead to further democratization, improvement of the human rights situation, and various economic reforms.