Pope’s Iraq Trip Certain: Baghdad

TEHRAN (IQNA) – Iraqi government officials said the head of the Catholic Church is determined to make his planned trip to the Arab country.  

Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ahmed Al-Sahaf said on Monday that Pope Francis will go ahead with the visit on March 5 as planned, RT Arabic reported.

He added that despite some challenges, the Pope is determined to make the trip on schedule.

Sahaf also said the visit is an indication of the importance of Iraq’s history, culture and civilization.

Last week, some reports suggested that the trip is in doubt after clashes between demonstrators and security forces in the southern Iraqi city of Nassiriya.

Back in January the Pope had said he is not sure if his trip to Iraq in March can take place because of the coronavirus pandemic.

But later it was reported that the 84-year-old pontiff, who has been vaccinated against COVID-19, intends to go ahead with the trip despite the pandemic and lingering security concerns.

As well as meeting with Iraq’s religious and political leaders, Francis is due to preside over an interfaith meeting in Ur, the birthplace of Prophet Ibraheem (Abraham).

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi has said that the Pope’s visit will spread the spirit of brotherhood in Iraq and the region.

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