The Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel declared an Official Mourning in Cuba following the death of Pope Francis, which occurred this Monday in the Vatican at the age of 88.
The measure was announced by national television and confirmed through a statement from the government. The official mourning for the passing of Pope Francis will be from 6:00 a.m. on April 22 until midnight on the 24th.
During the mourning period, the national flag of Cuba will be flown at half-mast on public buildings and military institutions, as a sign of respect for His Holiness, who maintained close ties with the government during his papacy.
The statement released by the government indicates that Pope Francis was active in seeking solutions to global challenges and a strong advocate for peace.
Furthermore, he emphasized the alignment with Cuba on key issues of the international agenda and underscored his role in strengthening the relations between Havana and the Holy See, through respectful dialogue.
The statement recalled the Pope's mediation in favor of restoring relations between the United States and Cuba during the thawing process. He was a respected figure by the Cuban political apparatus.
This Monday, Raúl Castro issued a farewell message in which he expressed his "deep sorrow" over the passing of the Pope, whom he described as "an tireless defender of peace and fraternity among peoples."
The text was published on the website of the Presidency of Cuba, with a personal tone: "Rest in peace, dear friend. Your passing deeply moves me. (...) Just as you once told me, I will carry you in my heart forever," expressed Raúl Castro.
A primera hora del lunes, Miguel Díaz-Canel published a message of condolence dirigido a la comunidad católica del mundo. Recordó las visitas del Papa a Cuba, especialmente la de 2015, y sus gestos de afecto hacia el pueblo cubano.
Frequently asked questions about the official mourning in Cuba for the death of Pope Francis
Why was an official mourning declared in Cuba for the death of Pope Francis?
The Cuban government declared an official mourning period for the death of Pope Francis due to the close ties he maintained with the regime during his papacy and his role in strengthening relations between Havana and the Holy See.
What was Pope Francis's role in the relations between Cuba and the United States?
Pope Francis played a crucial role in mediating the restoration of relations between Cuba and the United States during the thawing process, making him a valued figure by the Cuban government.
How did the Cuban authorities react to the death of Pope Francis?
Both Miguel Díaz-Canel and Raúl Castro expressed their sorrow over the death of Pope Francis. Díaz-Canel sent condolences to the Catholic community and recalled the Pope's visits to Cuba, while Raúl Castro issued a personal farewell message.
What measures were taken in Cuba during the official mourning for Pope Francis?
During the official mourning period, the national flag of Cuba was flown at half-mast on public buildings and military institutions, as a sign of respect for Pope Francis.
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