SHARE
Iraq declared on Saturday that March 6 will be a National Day of Tolerance and Coexistence following the landmark visit by Pope Francis to the country.
The pontiff is in Iraq to encourage Christians to return home after years of persecution and violence.
The historic visit is Pope Francis' first international trip since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic – and the first papal visit to Iraq.
"In celebration of the historic meeting in Najaf between Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani and Pope Francis, and the historic inter-religious meeting in the ancient city of Ur, we declare March 6 a National Day of Tolerance and Coexistence in Iraq," Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi said.