Al-Azhar ready to train Sunni, Shia imams in 'positive coexistence': Al-Tayyeb to Lebanese PM

Ahram Online , Thursday 28 Aug 2025

Al-Azhar Grand Imam Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayyeb said on Thursday that Al-Azhar was ready to host Sunni and Shia Lebanese imams for joint training to promote unity and positive coexistence,with curricula tailored to Lebanon’s diverse society and unique challenges.

Egypt

 

This came during his meeting in Cairo with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam at Al-Azhar headquarters in Cairo.

During the meeting, the grand imam reaffirmed the deep historical ties between the Lebanese people and Al-Azhar, expressing heartfelt wishes for Lebanon’s progress, stability, and unity.

Al-Tayyeb reaffirmed to PM Salam Al-Azhar’s commitment to the unity of Muslims in the face of challenges, citing the institution’s initiative to convene the Islamic–Islamic Dialogue Conference in Bahrain to revive the values of solidarity and shared destiny.

He noted the urgent need for such unity, especially amid the ongoing “inhumane aggression and genocide targeting our innocent brothers and sisters in Gaza for nearly two years.”

Al-Tayyeb also pledged to expand scholarships for Lebanese students at Al-Azhar, reflecting the historical bond between Lebanon and the institution.

For his part, Prime Minister Salam praised the grand imam's role in promoting fraternity and coexistence, renewing his country's invitation for Sheikh Al-Tayeb to visit.

The Prime Minister also thanked Al-Azhar for the support it offers to Lebanese students, including special exemptions and recognition of certificates from Lebanese schools, which facilitates enrollment at Al-Azhar University.

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