Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki is a Shia Muslim who lived in Iran

;( When the shit hits the fan--who do you think he will side with..the kaffir? )....

Rome, 25 July (AKI) - Pope Benedict XVI on Friday condemned ongoing violence in Iraq and its impact on Christian communities when he met Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki.

The pontiff received the Iraqi leader at his summer palace at Castelgandolfo, outside the Italian capital, Rome.

A statement released by the Vatican said particular attention was given to the question of Iraqi refugees, both inside and outside the country, who are in need of assistance.

The Pope also expressed concern about the impact of violence on members of the Chaldean Catholic Church, one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.

Hundreds and thousands of Christians have been forced to leave Iraq to flee the violence and the economic crisis caused by the war.

"Renewed condemnation was expressed for the violence that continues to hit various parts of the country almost daily, not sparing the Christian communities which strongly feel the need for greater security," the Vatican statement said.

The Pope expressed his desire for peace and development in Iraq and dialogue between ethnic and religious groups, including minorities.

AT: WINDS OF BABYLON