Rome, Italy, Jun 4, 2007 / 09:37 am
US President George W. Bush said this weekend he hopes to speak with Pope Benedict XVI about Cuba and “it’s desire to be free” during his upcoming meeting with Pontiff on June 9 at the Vatican.
In an interview published by the Italian daily “La Stampa,” Bush said, “If the Pope wants to, I would like to talk about Cuba and its desire to be free.”
The president said he is traveling to the Vatican to “listen” to the Pope and that he shares with the Holy Father “a common respect for life and for the dignity of man.”
Regarding China, Bush said he would encourage the Holy Father speak with clarity “about religious freedom” and to continue “standing up for Catholics” in that country.
This will be the first time President Bush meets with Benedict XVI. Bush was last in Rome in April of 2005 for the funeral of Pope John Paul II.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA