According to the Cuban Council of State decree, the mourning starts Sunday through Tuesday, and the national flag will remain half hoisted in public and military centers.

It explained that the Pope was a notable world celebrity who indefatigably defended peace and a solution to social woes, and openly criticized liberalism and wars.

"His Sanctity paid a historic visit to our country on January 21-25 1998, when the Cuban people and government respectfully and joyfully received him," indicates the communiqué.

During the visit, the Supreme Pontiff strongly condemned "the restrictive measures imposed from the outside," and termed them unjust and unacceptable.

By: Prensa-Latina