Chaldean Patriarch Sako meets US Ambassador to Iraq to discuss regional challenges and Christian emigration

BAGHDAD — On Wednesday evening, Chaldean Patriarch Cardinal Mar Louis Raphael Sako welcomed Mrs. Alina Romanowski, the United States Ambassador to Iraq, and her delegation to the Patriarchal residence in Al-Mansour, Baghdad. The meeting marked the conclusion of Amb. Romanowski’s tenure in Iraq.

Discussions focused on regional challenges and their impact on Iraq, particularly the difficult circumstances facing the country’s Christian community, which have driven many to emigrate. The conversation underscored the importance of addressing these challenges to preserve Iraq’s cultural and religious diversity.

The meeting was also attended by Bishop Mar Basilius Yaldo, the Patriarchal Assistant.

Patriarch Sako expressed gratitude to the United States, France, and other nations for their role in halting the ongoing conflict in Lebanon. He voiced hope for an end to violence in Gaza and other parts of the world. Emphasizing the importance of peace over war, he highlighted the need for educating people to respect citizens’ rights, uphold human dignity, and ensure the sovereignty of states.

The meeting reinforced the importance of collaborative international efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.