On February 17, Iraqi Ambassador to Jordan Haidar Al-'Athari, welcomed Director of the Catholic Center for Studies and Media in Jordan Fr. Dr. Rif'at Bader and the accompanying delegation.

During the meeting, the Iraqi ambassador stressed that Iraq is currently undertaking the necessary preparations to welcome His Holiness Pope Francis, as this visit represents support for all Iraqis, and conveys a message of peace to Iraq and the region. He pointed out that the visit underlines a unified position in face of extremism and conflicts, as well as enhance diversification, tolerance and common living.

He continued that the Iraqi embassy in Amman provides all needed facilities to ensure the success of this important visit.