In a context marked by the growing challenges of extremism, hatred and sectarian fanaticism, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmed al-Tayeb, draws attention to the risks incurred due to the attempts of some countries to exclude or marginalize the teachings of Al-Azhar. These teachings aim to promote the principles of tolerance, peaceful coexistence and moderation.
During his meeting with the Turkish Ambassador to Cairo, Salih Mutlu Şen, Grand Imam Tayeb stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between Al-Azhar, the highest seat of Sunni learning, and Turkey. A cooperation that could translate into increasing scholarships offered to Turkish students.
The message of Al-Azhar is clear: to emphasize the need to combat extremism by promoting dialogue, mutual understanding and respect between different cultures and religions. The establishment of an Arabic language center in Turkey and the training of Turkish imams at the Al-Azhar Academy for the Training of Imams and Preachers are evidence of this commitment to promoting peace and tolerance.
It is essential to emphasize that more than 350 Turkish students are currently enrolled in the various institutions of Al-Azhar, symbolizing the diversity and openness of this prestigious institution. The planned increase in the number of scholarships offered to Turkish students demonstrates Al-Azhar’s desire to strengthen ties with Turkey and encourage academic and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
The positive reaction of the Turkish Ambassador testifies to Turkey’s interest in deepening its collaboration with Al-Azhar, by organizing joint conferences to discuss the major challenges facing the Muslim world and find appropriate solutions.
Ultimately, this initiative to strengthen ties between Al-Azhar and Turkey illustrates the constructive and proactive response to current challenges, by fostering mutual understanding, respect and cooperation between different communities and nations. It is in this framework that joint efforts to spread the values of peace, tolerance and interfaith dialogue become essential to build a better and more harmonious future for all.