ERBIL () - President Masoud Barzani on Monday marked the 56th anniversary of the Kurdistan Union of Islamic Religious Scholars, praising the organization and religious scholars for their historic role in supporting the rights of the people of Kurdistan and promoting tolerance, moderation and peaceful coexistence.
In a message issued on Monday, President Barzani extended congratulations to the president and members of the union's Executive Bureau and Central Council, as well as Islamic religious scholars across Kurdistan.
He described the establishment of the union as an important moment in the history of Kurdistan's national movement.
"The establishment of the Kurdistan Union of Islamic Religious Scholars, upon the recommendation of the Immortal Barzani, was a historic decision aimed at strengthening the role of religious scholars in our people's revolution and struggle,"President Barzani said.
His message placed particular emphasis on the relationship between religious scholarship and the Kurdish national cause, saying scholars had long contributed to defending what he described as the legitimate rights of the people of Kurdistan.
President Barzani said religious scholars had also played an important role in strengthening patriotism within society while promoting religious and social values.
"Religious scholars have always constituted a strong bulwark in defending the legitimate rights of the people of Kurdistan and deepening the spirit of patriotism,"he said.
Alongside that national role, President Barzani highlighted their religious message, saying scholars had promoted "devotion to God, faith, tolerance, moderation and peaceful coexistence."
The anniversary message also paid tribute to generations of religious scholars who have served Kurdish society.
President Barzani expressed what he described as his highest respect and appreciation for the commitment and sacrifices of both past and present scholars, while encouraging them to continue their work in guiding society.
"I hold the utmost respect and appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of religious scholars, past and present,"he said.
He wished members of the religious community continued success in what he called their "sacred mission"of providing guidance and direction to society.
President Barzani concluded the message with a prayer, saying: "May Almighty God protect and support us all."
The statement marked the union's anniversary by linking its founding mission with the continuing roles of religious scholarship, patriotism, moderation and coexistence in Kurdistan.
