PM Barzani Reiterates Commitment to Peace, Coexistence in Christmas Message

Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani issued a message on the eve of Christmas, reiterating his government’s commitment to the preservation of peaceful coexistence spirit in the Kurdistan Region.

He highlighted that the welcoming atmosphere in Kurdistan Region has enabled Christians to celebrate Christmas at 120 churches across the region.

“On the occasion of the birth of Jesus Christ (Christmas), I extend my warmest congratulations and blessings to the Christians in Kurdistan, Iraq, and around the world. I wish you spend this happy occasion in a peaceful and joyous atmosphere,” reads the message by PM Barzani.

 

He stated that Kurdistan Region will remain as the center of ethnic and religious coexistence, and that it is proud to be a safe haven for hundreds of thousands of IDPs and refugees, including Christians of Iraq and the wider region,” the message reads.

“Today is the perfect moment to reflect on the contributions of the Christian community in our society. It is also a time to honour those serving in the Peshmerga and security services: they provide security and safety to those of all faiths and backgrounds, and help give certainty to the many displaced people who have fled persecution and come to our region in need of shelter.”

PM Barzani emphasized that Kurdistan Region will remain committed to host and serve those who seek refuge in Kurdistan due to persecution in their own areas.

 

“We hope that war and violence would end in the region and around the world, and that peace and prosperity would prevail,” he added. “I am especially proud that the Kurdistani peoples welcomed these families at their greatest moment of need. That’s the spirit that I hope you will continue to embrace — today and everyday.”