BAGHDAD, OCT. 28, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The Iraqi prime minister congratulated Patriarch Emmanuel Delly III, head of the Chaldean Church in Iraq and in the world, one of those named to be a cardinal by Benedict XVI on Oct. 17.

A government communiqué published Thursday quoted the prime minister, Nuri Al-Maliki, saying that Emmanuel Delly's nomination "honors all Iraqis and represents a victory for Iraq in its fight against terrorism, extremism, and sectarianism."

The prime minister said that the government will support the new mission of the Chaldean patriarch and will carry ahead his efforts to defend Christians in Iraq.

For his part, the Patriarch Emmanuel Delly III has expressed his appreciation for the efforts put forth by the Iraqi government "to establish a climate of security," adding that he is at the service of all Iraqis.

ZE07102807 - 2007-10-28