Pope Francis has arrived in Iraq on his first trip to the country, defying fears of security and a pandemic in consolation to one of the oldest and most persecuted Christian communities in the world, AFP reported.

The 84-year-old pontiff, who said he is going to Iraq as a pilgrim of peace, will also meet with Shia Muslims.

The Pope left Rome on Friday morning as part of his four-day trip, which was his first trip since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Foreign Ministry spokesman said the Iraqi authorities provided tight security on the ground and in the air to ensure an unhindered visit.