Baghdad, Iraq (CNN)Pope Francis has landed in Iraq for a historic tour of the war-ravaged nation, where he is expected to meet with members of the country’s dwindling Christian community and draw attention to their plight.
The trip, which marks the first-ever papal visit to Iraq, also includes meetings with the country’s top political and religious officials. It is the pontiff’s first trip outside of Italy since the start of the pandemic.
“I am happy to start trips again and this is a symbolic trip. It’s a duty,” the Pope told journalists traveling with him on the papal plane. “It has been a martyred land for too long.”
On Friday, the pontiff held meetings with Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi and President Barham Salih. Rows of traditional dancers, none of whom wore masks, greeted the Pope as he arrived at Baghdad International Airport.
Pope Francis and his entourage have all been vaccinated.
