Erbil, Kurdistan Region– Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, head of the Chaldean Catholic Church, commended the Kurdistan Region’s leadership for fostering religious unity and protecting displaced communities during the National Day of Prayer held Wednesday in Erbil.

Speaking under the theme "Towards Unity in Faith," Cardinal Sako thanked the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for its "wise vision" in promoting democracy, civil governance, and interfaith harmony. The event was attended by Kurdistan Region President Masoud Barzani, senior Iraqi and Kurdish officials, and international diplomats.

The Cardinal highlighted the region’s role in sheltering thousands of Christians and other minorities fleeing violence. "We cannot forget how the Kurdistan Region opened its doors to those in need," he said. However, he also warned of escalating conflicts in the area, drawing parallels to the devastation in Gaza. "War only brings death, division, and instability," he stressed.

Sako urged increased dialogue to resolve regional disputes and emphasized the need for legal reforms ensuring equality. "Outdated laws must be revised to prevent the exploitation of religion for political gains," he said, adding that true faith should unite, not divide.

Reaffirming the need for solidarity, the Cardinal declared, "God created us to live in peace, not in endless conflict." His speech underscored Kurdistan’s unique role in regional stability while calling for broader efforts to end violence.