His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Ash-Sharif, Prof. Ahmad At-Tayyeb, received Jean-Pierre Chevènement, President of the Foundation for Islam in France during the latter’s visit to Cairo.

The Grand Imam averred that Al-Azhar is concerned with introducing the tolerant teachings of Islam, guarding youth against extremist and radical ideology, and developing the missionary discourse through launching the multilingual Al-Azhar International Observatory. According to the Grand Imam, the role of the Observatory is to monitor and respond to the misconceptions promoted by terrorist groups. Besides, Al-Azhar also focuses on introducing new courses in Al-Azhar curricula, dispatching peace convoys to different world countries, and organizing dialogue rounds with the Church of Canterbury and the World Council of Churches and visits to the Vatican. His Eminence the Grand Imam explained that during his recent visit to France, he called on the Muslims to “positively integrate” and engage in French society without compromising their religious identity. He also informed the Europeans that Muslims in Europe should feel that they are citizens, not minorities, given that the latter term entrenches division and alienation.

For his part, Mr. Chevènement stated that Al-Azhar represents a symbol and beacon of Islam, and “we look forward to coordinating with it and to working together in confronting terrorist thought.” He appreciated the role of Al-Azhar in presenting true Islam that denounces terrorism. He also applauded the efforts of the Grand Imam in establishing peace and disseminating a culture of tolerance, praising his repeated calls for Muslims in Europe to positively integrate in their societies. He also pointed out that the Foundation for Islam aims to support projects of cultural, social and educational nature, unlike the French Council of the Muslim Faith, which addresses religious issues.