KDP President Barzani hosts Patriarch Mar Awa III, affirms commitment to religious communities

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - President Massoud Barzani welcomed His Holiness Patriarch Marawa III, the esteemed leader of the Eastern Assyrian Church, along with bishops from the Holy Society, in Salahaddin on Thursday.

In a statement from Barzani's office, Patriarch Mar Awa III commended President Barzani's steadfast support for religious communities in Kurdistan and Iraq. He expressed gratitude for the establishment of the Patriarch's headquarters in Erbil, attributing it to President Barzani's dedication to fostering religious tolerance and unity in the region.

Moreover, Patriarch Mar Awa III lauded President Barzani's principled stance against the unconstitutional ruling of the Federal Court, emphasizing its significance in upholding the values of coexistence and unity in Kurdistan and Iraq.

KDP President Barzani, in turn, underscored the profound cultural legacy of coexistence in Kurdistan, stating it as a source of great pride for the region.

He also voiced his refusal to participate in elections until the unjust exclusion of communities is rectified, emphasizing that their participation is essential to preserving the historical fabric of the Kurdish people.

The meeting between President Barzani and Patriarch Mar Awa III highlights the ongoing commitment of Kurdish leadership to safeguarding religious diversity and promoting inclusivity in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.