"It is not an official invitation, because invitations must always be agreed beforehand with the Cuban Church. But Benedict XVI would certainly be welcome to Cuba, and the Government would be most happy to receive him". This was said to SIR by Raùl Roa Kourì, the Ambassador of Cuba to the Holy See, in the run-up to the journey that card. Tarcisio Bertone, Secretary of the State of the Holy See, is about to have in Cuba from 20th to 26th February to celebrate the 10th anniversary of John Paul II’s visit. "Card. Bertone came to Cuba when he was still the cardinal of Genoa he reveals in an interview, which will be published on Sir’s biweekly service and dined with Fidel Castro. Fidel told him that, if Benedict XVI wanted to come to Cuba, he would be welcome. A few days ago, I was asked the same thing". As to the relations between Cuba and the Holy See, the Ambassador answers: "there is consistency in the Vatican policy. The current Pope has the same position as to Cuba. The position of the Holy See within the United Nations is the same as before". Of course, he goes on, "there are problems that are being discussed, for instance the areas for the building of churches, but this is all part of dialogue". The diplomat admits that the relations between the State and the Church in Cuba have hade their "ups and downs", but "are about to be back to normal". (continued)
