Pope Francis sends telegrams to heads of state as the papal plane flies over their countries, headed for Iraq.
As is customary, Pope Francis has sent telegrams to heads of state of countries the papal plane flies over as it heads to Iraq, where the Holy Father will be making an Apostolic Visit from 5-8 March.
Italy
Departing from Rome at 7.45 local time, Pope Francis first sent a message to President Sergio Mattarella:
As I leave Rome to go to Iraq, a pilgrim of peace and brotherhood among peoples, I am pleased to address to you, Mr. President, my respectful greeting, which I accompany with fervent wishes of serenity and prosperity for the dear Italian people.
