In celebration of the 90th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Holy See and Cuba, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican's Secretary for Relations with States, reiterated on Thursday in Havana the Catholic Church's dedication to upholding human rights, fundamental freedoms, and dialogue as a means of conflict resolution.
Speaking at the main event held at the Palace of the Revolution, Gallagher emphasized the role of the Church and Vatican diplomacy in fostering "open communication with others" and in building bridges between nations and institutions. "The Holy See cannot refrain from advocating both rights and freedoms and their foundation in the transcendent dimension of man," stated the prelate, with Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel and Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez in attendance.
Rodríguez, in turn, highlighted the "respectful, ethical, and constructive" nature of the dialogue between Cuba and the Vatican, appreciating the sustained bilateral ties over the years. Although Gallagher's visit was scheduled in advance, it holds particular significance as it is his first since the election of Pope Leo XIV and follows the Holy See's mediation that led to the release of over 500 prisoners by the Havana regime.
Cuba and the Holy See's relationship has significantly evolved since their initial severance following the 1959 revolution. The island, officially atheist from 1959 to 1992, has since welcomed visits from the last three popes—John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis—contributing to a gradual normalization of relations.
The Vatican has played a crucial role in pivotal moments of recent Cuban history, such as mediating the 2014 restoration of diplomatic relations between Havana and Washington. More recently, it facilitated negotiations between the Biden and Díaz-Canel administrations for the release of more than 500 prisoners, alongside efforts to remove Cuba from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism.
Although some of these advancements were reversed with Donald Trump's return to the White House, the Holy See has continued its humanitarian endeavors, including negotiating mass prisoner releases in Cuba, benefiting thousands, although not always for political reasons, according to EFE news agency.
Gallagher remarked on Wednesday that "Cuba holds a special place in the heart of the Holy Father," referring to Pope Leo XIV's affection for the Cuban people. After his election, it became known that Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, had direct contact with Harold Cepero Escalante, the activist who died with Oswaldo Payá in a controversial 2012 car accident.
Vatican-Cuba Relations and Human Rights Efforts
What is the significance of Archbishop Gallagher's visit to Cuba?
Archbishop Gallagher's visit is significant as it marks the first since Pope Leo XIV's election and follows the Vatican's mediation to secure the release of over 500 prisoners in Cuba.
How have Cuba and the Vatican's relations evolved over the years?
Since their initial severance after the 1959 revolution, relations between Cuba and the Vatican have improved, with the island hosting visits from the last three popes and normalizing ties.
What role has the Vatican played in Cuban history?
The Vatican has been instrumental in key events, including mediating the 2014 restoration of U.S.-Cuba diplomatic relations and negotiating prisoner releases.