Pope receives Prime Minister of Iraq in the Vatican

By Vatican News staff writer

Pope Francis on Friday received in audience Mustafa Al-Kadhimi, Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq, his family and entourage.

According to a communiqué issued by the Holy See Press Office, during the cordial talks, the two leaders recalled the Pope’s historic apostolic visit in March to Iraq, highlighting the unity experienced by the Iraqi people during the visit, and the importance of promoting a culture of national dialogue to foster stability.

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The statement also said the process of reconstruction of the country was discussed.

The conversation, it added, went on to stress the importance of protecting the historical presence of Christians in the country with adequate legal measures and the significant contribution they can make to the common good. The need to guarantee them the same rights and duties as other citizens was also touched upon.

Finally, the meeting reportedly focused on the situation in the Middle Eastern region, noting the efforts made by the country, with the support of the international community, to re-establish a climate of trust and peaceful coexistence.

Mustafa Al-Kadhimi subsequently met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, and with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.