Peace, reconciliation main concerns of Iraq's new nuncio

In an interview with AsiaNews, Francis Chullikat, of Indian origin, outlined the priorities of his post and said: "The Vatican is doing everything possible to promote peace in Iraq."

Mumbai (AsiaNews) – "Peace and Reconciliation between all conflicting parties and religions is the main concern" of the new Apostolic Nuncio in Iraq and Jordan, the Archbishop-designate Francis Assisi Chullikat, from Kerala, India.

In an interview with AsiaNews a few days after his official consecration, the new Vatican ambassador outlined the guidelines of his ministry and gave assurance of the Vatican's unconditional commitment to peace.

"This task I am embarking on is not an easy one, but I humbly accept what has been entrusted to me. The Vatican is doing everything possible to promote peace in Iraq," he said. "Our beloved John Paul II made personal appeals to President George W. Bush and Saddam Hussein and sent emissaries to both in his effort to avoid the conflict".

The nuncio continued: "My motto will be 'Fide e Vertute' which means 'By the Power of Faith'. My firm faith is in God, who has been my guiding 'star' since when I became a priest, and who will be my only star in the future."

Chullikat dwelt upon links between India and Iraq: "They are both Asian countries with ancient culture and civilization. Both are famous for their traditions and for their rich cultural heritage. These factors unite us and they will be valuable to me during my ministry."

The new nuncio belongs to Bolghaty parish near Kochi in the Archdiocese of Verapoly. Born March 20, 1953, he is the youngest of four children. He did his studies in Rome and earned a doctorate in Canon Law. He was ordained priest in 1978 and was selected to join the Vatican diplomatic corps by Emeritus Archbishop Joseph Kelanthara of Verapoly. Chullikat was permanent observer at the United Nations in New York and is personally acquainted with Shashi Tharoor, India's nominee for the post of Deputy Secretary General of the UN, also from Kerala.

On Sunday he will be consecrated by Mgr Giovanni Lajolo, currently Secretary of Relations with States and future President of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State and chairman of the Governorship of the same state. The ceremony will take place in Ernakulam, Kerala, at St Albert College. The Nuncio in India, Mgr Pedro Lopes Quintana, and the Archbishop of Verapoly, Mgr Daniel Acharuparambil, will concelebrate. Chullikat said he was "immensely happy and overjoyed that his mother will be present for his installation along with his 2 brothers and sister."

• INDIA
• VATICAN
• IRAQ
• JORDAN
• catholic
• church
• war
• peace
• nuncio