Fundamentalism, which does not accept the coexistence of different peoples, religions, and cultures, has been at the heart of the conflicts and terrorism from which Iraq has suffered for many years, Pope Francis noted while arriving in the country.

According to him, all the past decades, Iraq has suffered from war, the scourge of terrorism and internecine conflicts, the cause of which is fundamentalism, which does not accept the peaceful coexistence of different peoples and religions, ideas, and cultures.

The pontiff noted that Iraq is intended to demonstrate to everyone, especially in the Middle East, that religious and cultural differences should not become a pretext for conflict but serve harmony in society. He called on the Iraqi authorities to guarantee recognition, respect, protection, and observance of the rights of all religious communities.

From Baghdad airport, the Pope arrived at the presidential palace, accompanied by a horse convoy in a closed armored vehicle. Military and police were lined up along the road from the airport. Despite the restrictions in force in connection with the pandemic, dozens of people gathered at certain sites to welcome the Pope, the first pontiff to visit Iraq. The entire city is cordoned off by security personnel.