Pope Francis meets Iraq`s top Shia cleric Sistani

Pope Francis has discussed the safety of Iraq's Christian minority with one of Shia Islam's most powerful figures, on his landmark trip to the country.

Like many communities in Iraq, Christians have been hit by waves of violence over the past two decades, reports BBC on Saturday (March 6).

The office of Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, spiritual leader of millions of Shia Muslims, said the talks had emphasised peace.

The meeting was seen as a highly symbolic moment in the Pope's visit.

The Pope is on his first international trip since the start of the pandemic - and the first ever papal visit to Iraq.

Covid-19 and security fears have made this his riskiest trip yet.

Agencies