Albright told the 53-nation commission that "the Castro regime continues to suppress dissent, deny free speech, outlaw free assembly and harass human rights advocates" and others.
Cuban Ambassador Carlos Amat dismissed Albright's proclaimed concern for human rights, ribbing her and her colleagues for their infrequent attendance at U.N. rights meetings. The last time a top U.S. official attended was in 1992.
Alluding to the children's fairy tale, he said Albright – who had already left the hall after giving her 15-minute speech – was like the stepmother with the "poisoned apple in Snow White."
"It would appear the secretary of state came to this commission to kill or destroy all the efforts we are making to uphold the credibility of this commission," Amat said.
Talking about rights violations in the United States, Amat referred to the stepmother asking the mirror on the wall who was the fairest one of all.
"If you asked the mirror what is the most beautiful country in the world, the mirror would refuse to tell you," he said.
The United States routinely tries to push through criticism of Cuba's record at the U.N. commission's annual meeting under a procedure reserved for serious offenders like Iraq, Myanmar and Sudan.
Last year the commission voiced concern "at the continued violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Cuba, such as freedom of expression, association and assembly and rights associated with the administration of justice." But the vote was a narrow one: 21-20 with 12 abstentions.
Cuba hoped that it might be let off easy this year, but Albright urged countries to back a new resolution drafted by the Czech Republic and Poland.
As she addressed the packed commission chamber, the four-member Cuban delegation exchanged knowing smiles and quiet jokes with each other – their relaxed manner in marked contrast to the walkout by Chinese diplomats to protest Albright's criticism of Beijing.
© Copyright 2000 The Associated Press