Chaldean Patriarch Sako calls for national dialogue to strengthen Iraq’s sovereignty

ARBCA’ILO, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — Amid Iraq’s deepening political and social crises, Chaldean Patriarch Cardinal Mar Louis Raphael Sako called for an inclusive national dialogue to address longstanding challenges and build a strong, sovereign state.

Sako emphasized the urgent need for a new phase of strategic thinking, particularly with upcoming elections and persistent threats such as sectarianism, corruption, and divisive rhetoric that have plagued Iraq for over two decades.

The patriarch stressed that the proposed dialogue should bring together the current government, political parties, and national leaders to establish a unified agenda that prioritizes Iraq’s interests over partisan or foreign influences. He also called for consolidating state authority by ensuring that weapons remain under government control.

Additionally, Sako underscored the importance of ensuring that national resources serve public welfare rather than private or external interests. He highlighted the necessity of reinforcing citizenship, fostering national unity, and promoting cooperation based on a shared Iraqi identity to achieve lasting stability and prosperity.