Pope Francis’ audience was a significant event highlighting the Pontiff’s commitment to peace and reconciliation in Iraq.

The Pope began his address by greeting President Rashid and his delegation. He then expressed his closeness to the Iraqi people, who have suffered so much in recent years: “My heart goes out to the Iraqi people, who have experienced so much suffering and pain”.

The Pope also spoke of the importance of peace and reconciliation in Iraq: “Peace and reconciliation are essential for the future of Iraq”. He then urged the Iraqi authorities to work together to build a lasting peace: “The Iraqi authorities must work together to build a lasting peace”.

Communiqué from the Holy See Press Office:

This morning, in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father Francis received in audience the President of the Republic of Iraq, His Excellency Mr. Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, who went on to meet with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations.

During the cordial discussions, which took place in the Secretariat of State, confirming the good bilateral relations, topics of common interest were discussed. In particular, the need was reiterated for the Catholic Church in Iraq to be able to continue to carry out its valued mission and for all Iraqi Christians to be a vibrant and active part of society and the territory, particularly in the Nineveh Plain.

In addition, some international issues were discussed, with particular attention to the conflict in Israel and Palestine, and the urgent commitment to peace and stability.