President Barzani: The Roots of Peaceful Coexistence in Kurdistan Run Deep Through the Ages

ARK News.. In the presence of President Masoud Barzani, high-level officials from Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, global leaders, parliamentarians, and representatives from the United States, Europe, and the Middle East, the National Day of Prayer was launched this morning in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region, under the theme: "Towards Unity in Faith."

Here is the official statement delivered by President Barzani during the ceremony:

In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

I extend my warmest welcome to all of you, esteemed guests. Welcome to Kurdistan – the land of ethnic and religious coexistence.

Before I begin, I would like to express once again our deep solidarity with all peace-loving and humanitarian individuals around the world, following the passing of a great man and symbol of peace and humanity – His Holiness the Pope.

This marks the first such gathering in Kurdistan – a National Day of Prayer, aimed at introducing the world to the rich cultural fabric of Kurdistan. It is a culture deeply rooted in this land’s history – a culture of coexistence, acceptance of others, and freedom of thought, belief, and faith. It is a heritage we are proud of, and we reaffirm our commitment to continue along this path.

I hope this event contributes to strengthening and expanding the spirit of brotherhood and coexistence in Kurdistan.

Piety is a shared foundation that brings different religions closer. Truth is singular, though there are many paths to it. All divine religions that affirm the oneness of God are seeking that same truth, and each must be respected. The essence of religion lies in ethics.

Since the founding of the Barzani lineage, under the leadership of Sheikh Abdul Salam Barzani and Sheikh Ahmed Barzani, respect for other religions and mutual acceptance have been fundamental beliefs.

This principle is grounded in the words of God in the Holy Quran:

“O mankind, we have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Verily, the most honored of you in the sight of God is the most righteous of you.” (Quran 49:13)

This verse guides us to uphold the values of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.

Throughout history, when Kurdistan came under attack, the oppressors did not distinguish between Muslims, Christians, and Yazidis. They burned villages, displaced communities, and committed atrocities against all. The war against ISIS was no different — they committed heinous crimes indiscriminately.

In contrast, the brave Peshmerga forces defended everyone with extraordinary sacrifice, ultimately defeating ISIS strongholds at a heavy cost of nearly 12,000 martyrs and wounded.

Let this occasion mark the beginning of more such gatherings, reminding us that we are all servants of God, and all brothers and sisters in humanity.

With mutual acceptance, love, and joy, we can all live together. But with coercion, neither the oppressor nor the oppressed will find peace. Every prophet has advised us to extend a hand of brotherhood and live together in harmony.

Finally, I pray that God grants guidance to all, brings peace to the region and the world, and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood. I hope you all enjoy your time in Kurdistan. We are honored by your presence and warmly welcome you again. My thanks to all those who organized this gathering.

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