President Masoud Barzani recently received the Order of Pope Pius IX during a high-profile diplomatic meeting. Chaldean Catholic Patriarch Cardinal Louis Raphaël I Sako presented the honor on behalf of the Holy See. The distinction recognizes Barzani’s persistent efforts to promote interfaith harmony and peace. In particular, Sako personally requested the honor to recognize Barzani’s efforts to protect vulnerable displaced communities across northern Iraq.
Moreover, the presentation ceremony highlighted decades of humanitarian initiatives led by Barzani in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Sako praised the Kurdish leader for safeguarding Christians and other minorities during periods of intense regional volatility. Meanwhile, the Kurdistan Region continues to provide refuge to thousands of families who have fled religious persecution in recent years.
Furthermore, Barzani expressed his deep appreciation to Pope Leo XIV and Cardinal Sako for conferring the award. He also reaffirmed that social harmony remains a historical legacy passed down through generations of local families.
In his remarks, Barzani stated that people should judge others primarily by their actions rather than by their religious beliefs. He further emphasized that preserving brotherhood among diverse ethnic groups provides the ultimate foundation for regional stability.
The Order of Pope Pius IX ranks among the highest papal orders of knighthood awarded by the Holy See. Therefore, the Vatican reserves the honor for distinguished figures who demonstrate exceptional public leadership and service.
Finally, the ceremony underscores the growing diplomatic ties between the Vatican and leaders in the Kurdistan Region. In addition, religious officials expect this international recognition to strengthen ongoing regional efforts to preserve the area’s historical diversity. Going forward, government institutions plan to maintain their support for minority-protection initiatives across the region.