Shafaq News/ The President of Kurdistan, Nechirvan Barzani, accentuated the Region’s perseverance to "peace, religious freedom & fraternity" after meeting Pope Francis this morning in Erbil.

Barzani tweeted, "I’m honored to receive Pope Francis in Erbil."

He added, "As apostolic visit begins in Kurdistan, we reiterate our lasting commitment to peace, religious freedom & fraternity. We also remember Peshmarga heroes and all those who made ultimate sacrifice to defend peace & liberty for all Iraqis."

Pope Francis arrived this morning in the capital of the Kurdistan Region, Erbil.

Upon disembarking from his plane, the Pontiff was received by the Region’s President, Nechirvan Barzani, and Prime Minister, Masrour Barzani, and clerical figures from the region.

Pope Francis took off towards the city of Mosul after meeting with the President of Kurdistan Democratic Party, the Kurdish leader, Masoud Barzani.