ERBIL - Kurdish prominent leader and former president of the Kurdistan Region, Masoud Barzani, released a message on the eve of Christmas, wishing the Christians happiness on the occasion.

"On the occasion of the birth of Jesus Christ (Christmas), I extend my warmest congratulations to my Christian brothers and sisters in Kurdistan, Iraq, and around the world," Barzani wrote in his message.

He also stressed on "further deepening the culture of coexistence and brotherhood" among the components living in the Kurdistan Region.

"I hope our Christian brothers and sisters will spend all their occasions in a peaceful and joyous atmosphere."