On Wednesday, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani wished Pope Leo XIV a full recovery after the Catholic Church’s top official underwent surgery to combat lung cancer.

“I fondly recall my meeting with His Holiness @Pontifex in May. Following his recent surgery, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a smooth and full recovery,” President Nechirvan Barzani posted on X. 

“His Holiness’s commitment to peace, human dignity, and dialogue among peoples is deeply valued. May His Holiness enjoy renewed strength and good health as he continues his important mission of promoting peace, compassion, and understanding around the world.”

The Kurdistan Region has a strong relationship with the Vatican and the Catholic Church.

In August, President Masoud Barzani received Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako, the former Chaldean Patriarch, during which the Cardinal bestowed the Catholic Church’s highest honor upon President Barzani.

On May 18, 2025, President Nechirvan Barzani was received by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, where he highlighted the situation of the communities in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

President Nechirvan Barzani emphasized that Christians, along with all religious and ethnic communities, are an essential part of the history, culture, and national identity of the Kurdistan Region, and together contribute to shaping the future of the country.