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President Nechirvan Barzani congratulates Pope Leo XIV on election as Catholic leader

President Barzani congratulates Pope Leo XIV on his election as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church. The announcement came Thursday following the official selection of the American-born pontiff.

In a message posted on X, President Barzani extended heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the Kurdistan Region. He praised the pope’s vision of peace, justice, and unity for a global audience.

President Barzani congratulates Pope Leo XIV and welcomed his compassionate leadership. The Kurdistan Region supports messages of moral responsibility and interfaith harmony.

Barzani also honored the legacy of the late Pope Francis. He noted Francis’ strong contributions to global humanitarian efforts and interreligious dialogue. The statement reaffirmed Kurdistan’s dedication to religious freedom and peaceful coexistence.

President Barzani congratulates Pope Leo XIV as the pontiff begins a historic chapter. Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago in 1955, becomes the first American and first Augustinian to lead the Catholic Church.

He was elected on May 8, following the passing of Pope Francis. Before his elevation, Leo XIV served as head of the Dicastery for Bishops and spent years as a missionary in Peru.

The Kurdistan Region has long promoted religious diversity. Barzani’s message signals continued support for global cooperation and mutual respect among faith communities.

For more updates, visit Erbil Weekly.

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