Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Meets Pope Tawadros II To Extend Christmas Gree…

Key Takeaways

• Al-Azhar Grand Imam visits Pope Tawadros II to deliver Christmas greetings
• Discussion focused on national unity and eliminating the “minority groups” concept
• Both leaders called for reason and human fraternity to resolve global conflicts

CAIRO — The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayyeb, visited Pope Tawadros II, Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, on Monday to extend Christmas greetings to Egypt’s Christian community.

Accompanied by a high-level delegation including Minister of Endowments Osama Al-Azhari and the Grand Mufti of Egypt.

During the meeting, El-Tayyeb highlighted Al-Azhar’s ongoing efforts to promote shared citizenship and move beyond the divisive concept of “minority groups.”

He cited a recent international conference on the subject as part of this mission. The Grand Imam also addressed global crises, urging world leaders to prioritize reason and human fraternity over force to end unjust wars causing widespread suffering.

Pope Tawadros II welcomed the delegation, stating the visit reflected the enduring bonds between Egypt’s Muslims and Christians. He extended prayers for victims of conflicts and congratulated El-Tayyeb on his recent 80th birthday.

A central topic was the work of the Egyptian Family House, a joint Al-Azhar and Church to combating extremism and sectarianism.