Egypt's foreign ministry has expressed concern over recent developments in Mali and called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
"All resources must be exhausted for a peaceful resolution to the problem, and the use of military force should be the last resort," said Amr Rushdy, a spokesperson at the ministry.
He emphasised the need to maintain Mali's unity and territorial integrity.
France began launching airstrikes against Islamist groups in northern Mali on Saturday in response to a request from the Malian government.
"All institutions, and Al-Azhar in particular, must work to eradicate extreme Islamic rhetoric and support a well-balanced image of Islam," added Rushdy, who stressed the importance of a comprehensive solution in Mali, which has for months battled Islamist groups in the north.
Rushdy also confirmed that Egypt was ready to support Mali financially to help it reach a speedy solution to the crisis.
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on Tuesday said the military invasion of Mali by France was premature and called for ceasefire, AFP reported.
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