Iraqi PM Mustafa Al Kadhimi meets Pope Francis at the Vatican

The two men discussed the recent papal visit to Iraq

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi arrives at the Vatican for a private audience with Pope Francis.

Mr Al Kadhimi greets the Pope on arrival..

Pope Francis visited Iraq in March.

Pope Francis and Mr Al Kadhimi discussed the reconstruction of Iraq.

They also highlighted the importance of protecting Christians in Iraq.

Mr Al Kadhimi met Pope Francis as part of a wider European tour.

Pope Francis and Mustafa Al Kadhimi looked back on the historic papal visit to Iraq earlier this year as the Iraqi Prime Minister visited the Vatican.

The two men discussed the process of reconstructing Iraq “and the importance of promoting a culture of national dialogue to foster stability”, a Vatican statement said.

“The parties went on to highlight the importance of protecting the historical presence of Christians in the country with adequate legal measures and the significant contribution they can make to the common good, highlighting the need to guarantee them the same rights and duties as other citizens.

“Finally, attention turned to the regional situation, noting the efforts made by the country, with the support of the international community, to re-establish a climate of trust and peaceful coexistence."

Mr Kadhimi is on a visit to Europe during which he met Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The visit to Iraq by Pope Francis in March was the first time the head of the Catholic Church had visited the country.