ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Political leaders in the Kurdistan Region on Wednesday shared Christmas greetings, underscoring the Region’s longstanding tradition of coexistence and religious tolerance.
On the occasion of Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani extended his congratulations to Christians in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and around the world.
“May you celebrate this holiday filled with joy and tranquility,” Barzani said in a statement.
He described Christians as an “indigenous community that has been integral to Kurdistan’s past, present, and future.”
“On this holy day, we renew the Kurdistan Region’s pledge to preserve our longstanding tradition of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and mutual respect among all peoples,” he added. “We remain committed to ensuring that the Kurdistan Region continues to serve as a safe refuge and welcoming home for every community.”
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also extended Christmas wishes to the Christian community.
“Merry Christmas to Christians in Kurdistan, Iraq, and around the world. I wish you a blessed and joyful holiday,” he said in a post on X, reiterating the Kurdistan Region’s “unwavering commitment to the values of coexistence and harmony for all who call the Kurdistan Region and Iraq home.”
The leader of the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) likewise issued Christmas greetings.
KDP President Masoud Barzani emphasized unity and diversity among the Region’s communities.
“On this occasion, I stress the importance of deepening the spirit of togetherness and brotherhood among all religions and nationalities in Kurdistan,” he said, expressing hope that Christian citizens would “always celebrate their festivals and events in peace.”
When the Islamic State (ISIS) seized control of large parts of northern Iraq in the summer of 2014, thousands of Iraqi Christians were forced to flee their homes and sought refuge in the Kurdistan Region. Many were initially sheltered by churches in Ankawa before being resettled in camps or emigrating abroad.
Christians across the Kurdistan Region are set to attend Christmas Eve Mass on Wednesday night.
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