UAE Leader Engages With Al-Azhar's Grand Imam To Foster Global Harmony
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed His Eminence Professor Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, at Qasr Al Shati in Abu Dhabi. His Highness wished Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb good health and a fruitful visit to his second home, the UAE.
The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between UAE entities and both Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders. They aimed to consolidate shared human values and promote coexistence, civilised dialogue, and peace among various cultures worldwide. This effort is based on the principles of the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and His Holiness Pope Francis in February 2019 in Abu Dhabi.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed praised Dr Ahmed Al-Tayeb's significant efforts in spreading understanding and human coexistence. He also commended the pivotal role of Al-Azhar in presenting Islam's true image and maintaining its peaceful message.
The discussion included the Muslim Council of Elders' initiative titled Alliance of Religions for Development and Peace. This initiative, established with Indonesia, aims to strengthen religious scholars' roles in supporting global development and peace efforts.
His Eminence highlighted Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders' efforts in promoting peace, coexistence, and human fraternity. They also combat hate speech and extremism while supporting religious leaders in addressing contemporary humanitarian challenges.
The Grand Imam expressed appreciation for the UAE's commitment to Islamic issues. He acknowledged its historical support for its brothers, especially concerning the Palestinian cause at various levels.
Mutual Interests Discussed
Both leaders exchanged views on several mutual interests during their meeting. The Grand Imam praised His Highness' initiatives supporting regional and global peace and development. He also highlighted His Highness' humanitarian approach focusing on human development worldwide.
The meeting was attended by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor for Special Affairs at the Presidential Court; Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat; and Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders.
This gathering underscored a shared commitment to fostering a culture of mutual respect and understanding among different cultures globally.
With inputs from WAM
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