"For several months we have been witnessing events that fill us with hope, the process of normalization of relations between the two nations after years of estrangement," Pope Francis said upon arrival in Cuba, adding that "this should be an example of reconciliation for the whole world."
The Obama administration began normalizing relations between the two countries in December 2014. In July, the United States resumed diplomatic relations with Cuba as the two countries reopened embassies in their respective capitals after five decades of conflicts.
Pope Francis arrived in Cuba on Saturday for a canonical visitation that will last until Tuesday. He is scheduled to hold services in the Cuban capital and in the country’s east, talks with Raul Castro, as well as to visit Cuban holy places.
