COLOMBIA’S President Gustavo Petro has called on the United States to “change its policy” towards Cuba.

Sunday’s call by President Petro comes as the illegal brutal economic and oil sanctions imposed by the US continue to cause severe hardship on the people of Cuba.

The Colombian president said in a social media post that he was proposing a major solar energy programme throughout Havana, due to the frequent blackouts that occur on the island due to the severe fuel shortage they have been experiencing since December.

He said: “In Latin America we can support by manufacturing solar panels. Colombia provides its silica sands and copper, we already produce panels for export if necessary.”

President Petro recalled the assistance provided by Cuba for the peace process in Colombia.

He said: “I thank Cuba for having collaborated with Norway for the peace of Colombia. Cuba is a jewel in the Caribbean and its people are cultured and could greatly help humanity with their knowledge and cultures.”

Colombia joins a growing number of nations calling for an end to the US siege that has devastated critical services such as health, electricity, education, and access to water.

Russia, China, France, and Spain have also expressed their support for the island, urging a diplomatic solution with the US.