His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, Prof. Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, received today, Monday, at Al-Azhar headquarters, H.E. Sergio Román Carranza, Ambassador of Spain to Egypt, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation.

The Grand Imam affirmed Al-Azhar's appreciation for Spain's courageous stances on just causes, foremost among them the aggression against Gaza, and its outspoken condemnation of the crimes and massacres committed amidst global silence. His Eminence stated, "We admire your country's courageous stance, and Spain has set an example of the integrity that we hope to see from developed nations. We call upon all countries to emulate this stance and to demonstrate the courage to support oppressed peoples.”

During the meeting, His Eminence emphasized that Al-Azhar instills in its students the values of diversity and acceptance of others. Hence, its curriculum is characterized by moderation and avoidance of extremism, promoting peace and positive coexistence. He also affirmed Al-Azhar's readiness to increase the number of scholarships offered to Spanish students and to invite Spanish imams to get training at the Al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Preachers. The academy uses academic curricula prepared by specialized committees of senior scholars and professors from Al-Azhar in various academic disciplines.

Carranza expressed his delight at meeting the Grand Imam and his country's appreciation for His Eminence's efforts in promoting world peace, strengthening the values of fraternity, and supporting the oppressed. He noted that Spanish policy is based on respect for human rights and adherence to international law. He affirmed that Al-Azhar is a vital global institution in establishing justice and tolerance worldwide. He also indicated his country's desire to enhance cooperation with Al-Azhar in the fields of translation, the exchange of researchers and professors, and the organization of joint research projects between Al-Azhar University and Spanish universities. He further mentioned the possibility of sending Al-Azhar scholars to lead prayers during Ramadan in Spanish mosques.