December 10, 2009. Cuba’s new ambassador to the Holy See, Eduardo Delgado Bermudez, has turned in his diplomatic credentials to the Vatican. The new representative, who’s 66 years old, comes from a high ranking position at the Foreign Ministry.

During their first meeting, the pope asked Cuba for greater religious freedom that would make it possible to celebrate Mass in some prisons, hold processions, build religious homes and for social security for priests and religious.

Benedict XVI calls for more concrete signs of freedom such as their participation in the media. And wants to see the relationship between the Vatican and Cuba to be defined juridically to ensure the development of the Church on the island.

The Pope stressed, Cuba's relationship with the United States. He noted that a stronger relationship would benefit both sides.

The pope sent greetings to the authorities and Cubans which he described as noble people who have suffered but are fighters.

Interestingly, the Vatican now has two Cuban ambassadors to the Holy See: Eduardo Delgado and Miguel Diaz, who was born in La Habana but represents the United States.

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