Famous Quotes From the Last Papal Visit to Cuba Some of the most famous quotes from Pope John Paul II's groundbreaking tour of Cuba in 1998, one of the most important trips of his papacy: "May Cuba, with all its magnificent potential, open itself up to the world, and may the world open itself up to Cuba." - Pope John Paul II. Cuba does not know fear. It scorns the lie. It listens with respect. It believes in its ideas. It unshakably defends its principles and has nothing to hide from the world." - Cuban President Fidel Castro. We want Cuba to move toward freedom and openness, and if they do, we'll respond. That's always been our position, and I believe that in the end it will prevail." - President Bill Clinton, when asked about the U.S. economic embargo on Cuba, then in its 36th year. The sanctions have now been in place for a half century. In our days no nation can live alone. Thus, the Cuban people cannot be deprived of ties to other peoples ... especially when the resulting isolation harms the population indiscriminately." - John Paul II, appealing for an end to the U.S. embargo. "We prefer to die a thousand deaths rather than abandon our convictions." - Fidel Castro.