Today, July 2, 2021, the Holy Father Francis received in audience His Excellency Mr. Mustafa Al-Kadhimi, Prime Minister of the Republic of Iraq, who subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, accompanied by His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial talks, as described by the Vatican, Pope Francis’ historic visit to Iraq and the moments of unity experienced by the Iraqi people were evoked, and the importance of promoting a culture of national dialogue to foster stability and the process of reconstruction of the country was discussed.

The parties went on to highlight 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, highlighting the need to guarantee them the same rights and duties as other citizens.

Finally, attention turned to the regional situation, noting the efforts made by the country, with the support of the international community, to re-establish a climate of trust and peaceful coexistence.

The visit by the Iraqi leader comes in the context of the Holy Father’s historic visit to Iraq earlier this year.

Exaudi’s readers have the possibility to read all the addresses, homilies, and greetings that Pope Francis gave during his recent Apostolic Journey to Iraq, which took place from March 5-8, 2021, during which he visited Baghdad, Najaf, Ur, Erbil, Mosul, and Qaraqosh.

In addition, Peruvian journalist Jose Antonio Varela shares with Exaudi’s readers the article “Pope Francis in Iraq: Living Human Fraternity: A Christian People Called to Be Leaven in the Dough,” published by the Archdiocese of Miami on Pope Francis’ historic trip to Iraq in March of 2021.