"The presence of an apostolic nuncio in Iraq is a glaring sign that the Church does not abandon its children in need who are experiencing a grave period of suffering. The Church prays for them and expresses solidarity with them." This was stated by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, during the ordination of Monsignor Alberto Ortega Martin in the Basilica of St. Peter.

Cardinal Parolin addressed the new archbishop saying: "My Dear Monsignor Alberto, in your capacity as an archbishop who represents the papacy, you have to express the love that motivates everything in the Church." He added, "You must convey the Pope's view, serve to reinforce partnership among the various Churches, as well as serve the cause of reconciliation and peace among peoples.'' In Iraq and Jordan, "convey the wise words of the Pope, and his interest for the good of these countries, for all communities, especially for Christians."

His Holiness Pope Francis appointed on August 1, 2105 Monsignor Alberto Ortega Martin as apostolic nuncio to Jordan and Iraq. Monsignor Alberto was born in Madrid, Spain, on November 14, 1962 and ordained priest on April 28, 1990. After earning a doctorate in Canon Law, he entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See in 1997 and served in Nicaragua, South Africa, and Lebanon, and from 2004 in the Section of Relations with States of the Secretariat of State. Monsignor Alberto speaks Italian, French and English.