Baghdad: The leader of the Chaldean Church, Patriarch Cardinal Louis Raphael Sacco, confirmed that the Christian presence in Iraq is threatened by “sectarianism and quotas”. The church stated in a statement that Sacco received the German Archbishop Bentz and his accompanying delegation at the Patriarchate in Baghdad, where they stayed for two days at the Patriarchate from January 30 to February 1.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Sacco pointed out that the meeting included a presentation of the situation in the region in general, focusing on the difficulties facing Iraqi Christians. Despite improvements in security, he emphasized that the Christian presence is still threatened by sectarianism and quotas. This threat is mainly due to the control of certain political parties over their capabilities and representation, along with the restriction of employment among their members.

Sacco further expressed a desire for a civil state that treats everyone with justice and equality. He stated, “We hope that this dream will be realized on the ground, and not by the good words we hear.”