Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel conveyed his sorrow on Monday following the death of Pope Francis. He fondly recalled the pontiff's gestures of goodwill towards the Cuban people and his memorable visit to the island. "We deeply mourn the passing of the unforgettable Pope Francis," Díaz-Canel shared on his social media platform X, highlighting the pope's gestures of warmth and connection with those born in Cuba. "These sentiments were always reciprocated by the Cuban people," he added.
In another message, Díaz-Canel reminisced about Pope Francis' visits to Cuba and the "words of affection he dedicated to our nation in his messages." He extended his "heartfelt condolences to the family and the international Catholic community."
Pope Francis visited Cuba from September 19 to 22, 2015, during a period of diplomatic thaw between Havana and Washington, spearheaded by then U.S. President Barack Obama and General Raúl Castro. This apostolic journey included a private meeting with Fidel Castro. Furthermore, in February 2016, Pope Francis made a brief stopover in Cuba on his way to Mexico, where he met with Patriarch Kirill of Moscow.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis maintained a close relationship with the Cuban regime, drawing criticism from exiles and dissidents for not openly addressing the island's repression. In June 2023, Díaz-Canel had an audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican, describing it as a "pleasant reunion." They discussed various topics concerning "Cuba's current reality." During this meeting, Díaz-Canel expressed gratitude for the pope's "support and encouragement" towards Cuba and noted their shared views on pressing international issues.
Over a year later, on February 23, 2025, amid Pope Francis' serious health crisis, Díaz-Canel posted a message on social media wishing the Catholic Church leader a swift recovery. Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, in the Casa Santa Marta residence at the Vatican. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, officially announced his death at 9:45 a.m., Rome time.
Questions About Pope Francis and His Relationship with Cuba
How did Pope Francis contribute to Cuba-U.S. relations?
Pope Francis played a significant role in the diplomatic thaw between Cuba and the United States, which was facilitated by President Barack Obama and General Raúl Castro during his visit to Cuba in 2015.
What were some criticisms of Pope Francis regarding Cuba?
Pope Francis faced criticism from Cuban exiles and dissidents for not openly condemning the Cuban government's repression during his papacy.
When did Pope Francis last meet with Díaz-Canel?
Pope Francis last met with Miguel Díaz-Canel in June 2023 at the Vatican, where they discussed various issues concerning Cuba.