Pope Benedict stated that communism had failed in Cuba and offered the Church's assistance in creating a new economic model, which was met with a cautious response from the Cuban government ahead of his upcoming visit to the island. During a press conference on his way to Mexico and Cuba, the Catholic leader expressed that Marxist ideology no longer aligns with reality. He emphasized the need to find new models for society in a patient and constructive manner. These remarks were more critical and direct than those made by his predecessor John Paul II during his visit to Cuba 14 years ago, reflecting the Church's anti-communist stance. The Church and government in Cuba have improved their relationship in recent years, leading many to believe that the pope would avoid controversial topics during his visit. Cuban leaders did not show any signs of being upset by the pope's comments, as Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez stated that they would listen with respect to his Holiness and value the exchange of ideas, while also emphasizing the deep convictions of the Cuban people. Elizardo Sanchez, leader of the independent Cuban Commission on Human Rights, commended the pope for demonstrating "the goodwill of the Catholic Church and particularly Pope Benedict XVI regarding the situation in Cuba," although he questioned whether significant changes would occur. According to Sanchez, the government is not motivated to implement the necessary political reforms in Cuba. Pope John Paul II is remembered for his reconciliatory speech at a Mass in Havana's Revolution Square, where he expressed the hope that Cuba would embrace its potential and engage with the world. Pope Benedict acknowledged the progress made through collaboration and dialogue initiated by John Paul, despite ongoing disagreements between the Cuban bishops and government on issues like media access and religious education. The Church is aiming to increase its congregation in Cuba following a decline after the revolution, caused in part by families leaving and government hostility. Around 60 percent of Cuba's population has been baptized, but only five percent attend mass regularly. During his upcoming visit, Pope Benedict offered the Church's assistance in achieving a peaceful transition on the island, emphasizing the need for patience and decisiveness. The Church hopes to contribute to a society that is fraternal and just, and to avoid potential difficulties in the transition after Cuba's current leaders, Fidel and Raul Castro, have passed away. Cuba's leaders have acknowledged the need for improvement in the country's economic model while maintaining support for the one-party communist political system. In 2010, Fidel Castro admitted to a reporter that the Cuban model was no longer working for them, leading some to believe that communism had failed in Cuba. However, Castro clarified that his comment was not a criticism of the communist revolution but rather a reflection of the challenging economic conditions on the island. This suggested his support for his brother's efforts to stimulate the economy through modest reforms to protect the revolution. It is uncertain whether Benedict will meet with Fidel, who led Cuba for 49 years before stepping down due to age and illness. The Vatican has stated that the pope is willing to meet with the elderly, ailing Castro if he desires. Amnesty International reported an increase in harassment and detention of dissidents in Cuba over the past two years. When asked about defending human rights in Cuba, the pope stated that the Church always stands for freedom, including freedom of conscience and religion. Despite Cuba releasing 70 members of the dissident Ladies in White group who were detained over the weekend, they were warned not to attend events related to the pope's visit. The women, also known as the "Damas de Blanco," were released without charges after being arrested in separate incidents while trying to march in Havana. On Friday, they could not be contacted by phone. Rodriguez cautioned that any attempts to disrupt the papal visit with political tactics will be unsuccessful because the Pope will encounter a patriotic and well-informed Cuban population proud of their culture and beliefs. The Pope's schedule does not include any meetings with Cuban dissidents. The Vatican recently reiterated its disapproval of the US trade embargo on Cuba, deeming it ineffective and harmful to regular citizens. Despite being in place for 50 years, the embargo remains a central aspect of US policy towards Cuba, despite failing to achieve its goal of weakening the communist government. During the peak of the Cold War, Washington enforced a nearly complete trade embargo on Havana as a means to retaliate against its backing of the Soviet Union and with the expectation that it would lead to the downfall of communism.