Official visit by Senator Anna Finocchiaro

Yesterday morning, October 19, 2011, Senator Anna Finocchiaro, leader of the Democratic Party in the Senate since 2008, came to visit us together with a delegation.

Dr. Rezan Kader introduced the representation's staff and showed them around the office, receiving the compliments of Senator Finocchiaro. The High Representative and the Senator had an interesting conversation on various issues: the Italian political situation, the Kurdish situation, and the plight of Christians in the Middle East.

Regarding the Italian political situation, Senator Anna Finocchiaro expressed her concern about the government stalemate that is slowing down legislative activity. Furthermore, the Senator emphasized the importance of younger generations and their involvement in public life. She therefore referred to the violent clashes that occurred during the demonstration in Rome on October 15th, which the government must address to prevent a recurrence.

Both Dr. Kader and Senator Finocchiaro shared the belief that democracy must be safeguarded, as it represents a value that is always under threat. As is well known, the Kurdish population has had a past filled with suffering and has had to fight hard to defend democracy and protect fundamental human rights.

Regarding the delicate situation of Christians in the Middle East, Dr. Kader would like to see greater support from the Vatican and European governments. However, unlike other areas in the Middle East, our Christian brothers and sisters have found assistance and refuge in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, a testament to both the excellent understanding between the various religious communities and the profound intercultural respect.

Finally, Dr. Kader and Senator Finocchiaro went out for lunch at the invitation of the High Representative. Before leaving, Dr. Kader showed Senator Finocchiaro, who had been officially invited to Kurdistan, the book on the city of Halabja, hoping to visit it in person one day.