Havana, April 21 (Prensa Latina) Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel declared a state of official mourning today for the death of the supreme pontiff of the Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope Francis, national television reported.
The measure will be in effect from 6:00 a.m. local time on April 22nd until midnight on April 24th.
According to the statement, Pope Francis was very active in seeking solutions to global problems affecting humanity and the environment, and a fervent advocate for peace.
He agreed with Cuba on many issues on the international agenda during his long and distinguished career as head of state and spiritual leader, the text stated, highlighting his contributions to strengthening relations between this Caribbean nation and the Holy See, based on respectful dialogue.
Moved by deep feelings of affection for the Cuban people, he interceded for the improvement of relations between the United States and Cuba, advocating for the U.S. government to abandon its blockade policy against our nation, he emphasized.
The statement also recalled the friendship the Supreme Pontiff maintained with Army General Raúl Castro and his reception of President Miguel Díaz-Canel at the Holy See in June 2023.
While the official mourning period is in effect, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on public buildings and military institutions.
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