President of Iran asks Pope Francis for prayers, for a very good reason

President Hasan Rouhani of Iran has met with Pope Francis at the Vatican, and has asked the Holy Father for prayers. The pair discussed Iran's nuclear agreement and have possibly laid the groundwork for a papal visit to Iran.

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LOS ANGELES, CA (California Network) - Pope Francis received Iranian President, Hassan Rouhani at the Vatican on Tuesday with a warm handshake. The pair spoke about Iran's nuclear agreement, Iran's role in promoting peace in the region, and the possibility of a papal visit to Iran.

To many Americans, this visit is surprising, but it shouldn't be to those who know their history. Iran has enjoyed formal diplomatic relations with the Vatican since 1954. The Vatican has also been a major player in Middle East peace talks for decades. Pope Francis and his predecessors have long been intercessors for peace.

According to Italian media sources, Rouhani invited Pope Francis to Iran for a formal visit. This has not yet been confirmed. Pope Francis may also be contemplating a visit to Armenia.

The relationship between the pair is of critical importance. Iran is the single-most important player in the Middle East at this moment. From the Islamic State to Saudi Arabia, to Israel and with its nuclear agreement, Iran is firmly in a position of control. If Iran is treated poorly, as a pariah state, it could decide to end cooperation and pursue a selfish agenda in the region, leading to conflict. Instead, engagement with states like Russia, the United States, European Union, and of course, the Vatican, brings Iran onto the world stage as a major player.

That major player status is a good thing because it compels Iran to act as such, rather than as a rogue state. Iran is a powerful Islamic Republic, but it is not a backwards state as western media portrays. It is a powerful nation, well-educated and relatively sophisticated. As such a strategy of peaceful coexistence, supported by key figures such as Pope Francis, is the best for everyone.

Upon his departure, President Rouhani asked Pope Francis to pray for him; prayers for both men are in order.