ABU DHABI (WAM)
His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, received Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, at his residence in Abu Dhabi, to discuss enhancing mutual cooperation.
During the meeting, the Grand Imam expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the UAE in supporting the causes of the Ummah and promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.
He praised the initiatives and efforts of Sheikh Nahyan in this regard, highlighting the close cooperation between the Ministry of Tolerance and the Muslim Council of Elders in consolidating common human values, fostering a culture of coexistence and civilisational dialogue, and the importance of shielding the youth against extremist ideologies, while instilling values, ethics, and loyalty to the nation.
Sheikh Nahyan expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Grand Imam, which have significantly contributed to showcasing the moderation and tolerance of Islam, countering extremism and terrorism, correcting misconceptions, and fostering constructive engagement with Muslims worldwide.
He commended the importance of the Grand Imam's visit to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia, and the "Alliance of Religions for Development and Peace" initiative announced during his visit to Indonesia.
He affirmed that the Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of the Grand Imam, greatly contributes to promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.
The UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence also congratulated the Grand Imam on the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Muslim Council of Elders.
In turn, the Grand Imam presented the Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence with a special edition of the commemorative medal marking the 10th anniversary of the Council's founding.
The meeting was also attended by Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders.