Iraqi Prime Minister al-Kadhimi receives Syriac Chaldean Patriarch to discuss situation of Christians in the country
BAGHDAD — Yesterday evening, the Prime Minister of Iraq, Mustafa al-Kadhimi, received Patriarch of the Chaldean Church, Louis Raphaël I Sako, as well as his assistants Bishop Mar Basilios Yaldo and Bishop Mar Robert Jerjis.
During the meeting, Patriarch Sako expressed his appreciation to al-Kadhimi for his clear handling of important issues and hoped for his continuation in this approach. Patriarch Sako also indicated that the Church supports al-Kadhimi’s steps towards achieving security and stability throughout Iraq.
Christians (which are overall majority the Chaldeans-Syriacs-Assyrians) felt more secure, said the Patriarch, in light of al-Kadhimi’s governments delicate handling of Christian issues, indicating that there are a large number of them who want to return to Iraq.
Al-Kadhimi, in turn, confirmed that Iraq is for all, and the country’s Christians are indigenous peoples. There should be equality between peoples in Iraq as they are partners in building the country’s future.
The Prime Minister added that his door is open to all Iraqis and his government is serious about providing assistance to Iraq’s Christians.
“We are pleased that Christians will return to Iraq and contribute to its reconstruction, said al-Kadhimi. “Iraqis from all backgrounds are yearning for a new Iraq that believes in peace and rejects violence.”