Pope Francis will visit the “former heart” of the terrorist group Islamic State (IS, banned in Russia) – he will visit the northwestern provinces of Iraq, which were previously occupied by militants. Writes about this The Washington Post.
The Pontiff has already arrived in the country for the first apostolic visit in history. Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kazimi met him at Baghdad International Airport. The publication emphasizes that this is also Francis' first overseas trip since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. His visit to Iraq will last three days, at which time the pontiff intends to visit Baghdad, Erbil, Mosul, Ur and Bahdida (Karakosh).
Before leaving, Francis said that he had long wanted to visit people “who have suffered so much” in recent years. He called for prayer that his trip would go well.
It is noted that this visit is taking place against the backdrop of major economic and political problems in the country. Catholic Aid Iraq spokesman David Bernokki said the Iraqi people fear they have been forgotten. “The arrival of the pope is a tremendous sign of respect from the leader of the Catholic Church, but also an opportunity to attract the attention of the whole world. This is a chance for Iraqis to feel that they are not forgotten, ”Bernokki said.
