Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has underscored the Iraqi government’s commitment to encouraging the return of Iraqis from abroad, with a particular focus on the Christian community. The statement, issued by Al-Sudani’s media office, highlighted his meeting with members of the Iraqi community from Michigan, USA, belonging to the Iraqi Christian spectrum.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani praised the patriotism of Iraq’s Christian sons and emphasized the government’s equitable treatment of all societal components. He acknowledged the adverse effects of terrorism, which have disrupted societal harmony, and outlined the government’s initiatives to heal these divisions. Al-Sudani noted that the united front against ISIS terrorism demonstrated the solidarity among Iraqis, which thwarted terrorist plans.

The Prime Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to facilitating the return of the Christian diaspora and fostering consensus among Iraq’s diverse communities. He pointed out the ongoing efforts to reconstruct areas devastated by terrorism and mentioned specific measures aimed at improving conditions for Christians in their localities. The government has initiated a fund for reconstructing Sinjar and the Nineveh Plain, along with service projects in areas like Telkef and Al-Hamdaniya.

Al-Sudani detailed the challenges posed by the war against terrorism, which hindered development and delayed reconstruction. He highlighted the establishment of projects under the Nineveh Plain Reconstruction Fund and expressed the government’s focus on eradicating the impacts of delayed services across Iraq. Additionally, he mentioned a draft law aimed at addressing international crimes, protecting diversity, and combating hate speech and racism, aimed at reassuring all Iraqi communities.

The Prime Minister encouraged Iraqi Christian businessmen to engage in Iraq’s development initiatives, particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors. He also addressed negative narratives about Iraq, urging the Iraqi community to portray the country’s peaceful coexistence and rich cultural diversity. Al-Sudani stressed the responsibility of the diaspora in reinforcing Iraq’s image as a nation of harmony and historical unity.