Pope John Paul II Calls for Human Rights Progress and Change to US Embargo on Cuba

As Pope John Paul II arrived in Cuba, he prodded Fidel Castro to make progress in human rights and called for change to the American embargo on the Communist nation. In a press conference during his plane ride to Cuba, the Pope emphasized the importance of human rights and the need for Cuba to advance in this area. He also called for a change to the US embargo, suggesting that perhaps both Cuba and the US are looking for a better way.

Key Takeaways:

• The Pope, during his press conference, expressed his conviction on human rights, stating that they are fundamental rights and the foundation of all civilization.
• Pope John Paul II credited the Cuban revolution for advancing schooling and health, but expressed the need for progress in human freedom and dignity.
• The Pope called for a change to the US embargo on Cuba, saying "To change, to change".
• John Paul II emphasized the importance of honesty and openness in his meeting with President Castro, stating that he wants to hear the "truth, the truth".
• The Pope's visit marked a historic moment, as there had been no previous opportunity for him to visit Cuba.
• The Pope's visit has also seen an extraordinary return of religious fervor in Cuba, with many Catholic exiles returning to the country for the first time since the 1959 revolution.

Statistics:

• The Pope has been traveling since 1979 and has maintained a strong conviction on human rights.
• The Cuban revolution has advanced schooling and health in the country, but there is still progress to be made in human freedom and dignity.
• The Pope's visit marks the first time a Pope has visited Cuba in history.
• The US embargo on Cuba has been in place for over 40 years, with the Pope calling for a change in this policy.

Sources:

• REUTERS HAVANA NEWSPAPER (exact as mentioned in the original text)
• Pope's press conference during his plane ride to Cuba (exact as mentioned in the original text)