Pope Francis hailed Iraq as a "cradle of civilisation" on Friday, the first day of a "long-awaited" trip to the country aiming to encourage its dwindling Christians and deepen dialogue with its Muslims. The 84-year-old pontiff landed in Baghdad on Friday afternoon in the first papal visit to the country, where he was greeted by Iraqi President Barham Saleh at the latter's palace. "Iraqis feel proud of your Holiness, as you are among them a cherished, gracious guest despite the difficult circumstances our country is going through," said Saleh. bur/mjg/dv