VATICAN CITY, March 3 (Reuters) - Pope Francis said onWednesday he is going to Iraq, where his predecessor John Paulwas not allowed to go in 2000, because "the people cannot be letdown for a second time."

Francis, who is do to leave on Friday, asked for prayers sothat the visit "can take place in the best possible way andbring about the desired fruits".

He made no mention of security problems in Iraq, whereearlier on Wednesday at least 10 rockets landed on an air basethat hosts United States, coalition and Iraqi forces.

(Reporting By Philip Pullella; Editing by Toby Chopra) ((philip.pullella@thomsonreuters.com;))