After touring the impressive Cathedral of Christ the Savior, one of the largest in the world, Díaz-Canel arrived at Danilov Monastery, the Patriarch’s residence, where Kirill greeted him warmly.

We always have issues to share, said His Holiness, who began his words with an expression of satisfaction for the transformations taking place in Cuba, including the new Constitution that, he said, opens possibilities to develop the economy and a solid system of government.

President Díaz-Canel commented that he considered Kirill a cultured, humanistic person, saying, “Being able to talk with you is always an opportunity to learn.” In addition, he said, I bring a special greeting to you from Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, who often recalls the meetings the two held.

(Granma)

Peace has been the golden dream of humanity, and the peoples’ aspiration, at every moment in history. Thousands of nuclear weapons are hanging over humanity’s head. Preventing the most brutal war that could be unleashed has undoubtedly been the fundamental objective of efforts by religious leaders of churches directed by men such as Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church, and His Holiness Kirill, Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia.

To struggle for peace is the most sacred duty of all human beings, whatever their religion, country of origin, skin color, advanced or youthful age may be.

Fidel Castro Ruz

February 14, 2016

10:18 pm

Also present for the welcome were Esteban Lazo Hernández, president of the National Assembly of People’s Power; Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla; both members of the Party Political Bureau; Marta Hernández, president of the Provincial Assembly of People’s Power in Havana; Caridad Diego, head of the Office of Religious Affairs of the Party Central Committee, Russian Ambassador to Cuba Mijaíl Kaminin; and other Orthodox Church authorities.

Speaking on arrival, Patriarch Kirill expressed his joy to be making his fourth visit to the island, invited by Army General Raúl Castro Ruz, while noting that “the people of Cuba and Russia are united by longstanding ties, collaboration and friendship.”

“Here, I will have the opportunity to speak with the people, to convey to them the good wishes of the Russian people,” he stated.

“I am not only Patriarch of Moscow, but of all Russia, of ancient and illustrious Russia, thus I convey to you the greetings of all the people of illustrious Russia. I wish wellbeing and joy to each and every Cuban. May merciful and loving God be with you all,” he stated.

After the welcoming ceremony, His Holiness Kirill and Cuban President Raúl Castro held a meeting in one of the airport’s function rooms.
As part of his scheduled activities, the Russian Patriarch will meet with Pope Francis at the José Martí International Airport today, Friday 12, who is making a stop in Cuba en route to Mexico.

According to a joint statement issued by the Vatican and Moscow Patriarchate, the two leaders will hold talks in Havana and sign a joint declaration.

Today, His Holiness Kirill will pay tribute to Cuba’s national hero José Martí and pay a courtesy call to President Raúl Castro Ruz. On Saturday, February 13, the Patriarch is scheduled to visit the Mausoleum of theSovietInternationalist Soldier, the Solidaridad con Panamá School for children with special needs, and attend a show at the capital’s Martí Theater. Rounding off the day, he will be presented with the José Martí Order and offer a Divine Liturgy before he departs on Sunday, February 14.

(Granma)