The Cuban leader posted on Twitter that it was really an honest talk in which he conveyed to Pope Francis “the Cuban people’s affection and wishes of speedy recover” following his abdominal operation on past June 7.

Diaz-Canel unfolded both tackled down on Cuba´s current reality, in particular the severe impact of the tightened economic U.S. blockade on Cuba, adding it was confirmed broad coincidences on stepped-up issues of the international agenda for humanity.

The Cuban president concluded: “I thanked Pope Francis for his insterests and encouragement in favor of our country. We reaffirmed our willingness to continue strengthening bilateral relations with the Holy See.”

A statement issued by the press office of the Holy See noted that after the meeting, Diaz-Canel had contact with Cardinal and Secretary of State Pietro Parolin.

The Cuban leader arrived in Italy on Monday afternoon alongside his wife Lis Cuesta and an official delegation mading up of Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez and several other deputy ministers in order to conduct an in-depth work agenda that also includes talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella.

On, Tuesday, the Cuban head of State also met with Italian entrepreneurs, as well as with Qu Dongyu, Director General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

In the afternoon, Diaz-Canel will also hold talks with Cubans residing in Italy and members of solidarity groups.

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