In the Vatican, yesterday, the Iraqi ambassador to the Holy See, Albert Edward Ismail Yelda, on Benedict XVI’s decision, was bestowed with the Great Cross of the Order of Pius IX, on the occasion of the second anniversary of his papacy. The acknowledgment, writes a note from the Iraqi embassy, was given for "the indefatigable efforts he has made over the last two years for building excellent relations between the two States and for his work in support of mutual respect and healthy dialogue between all religions". To Benedict XVI, the Iraqi embassy expresses "sincere gratitude and high esteem for the indefatigable and deep support that the Holy Father gives to the Iraqi people in his solemn prayers for a peaceful Iraq. May the Almighty concludes the note keep His Holiness in good health and give Him strength and wisdom in the accomplishment of his tasks so that he can successfully achieve his Noble Vision of justice, equality and peace for all mankind".
