His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, Prof. Ahmad al-Tayyeb received Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Minister of Health and Population and Deputy Prime Minister, at Al-Azhar today, Monday, to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between Al-Azhar and the Ministry of Health in the fields of science, research, and awareness.

During the meeting, His Eminence the Grand Imam emphasized that serving and caring for patients is one of the most honorable professions and the greatest act of devotion to Allah Almighty. His Eminence explained that Islam has placed great emphasis on preserving and caring for lives, making this one of its major objectives. The Grand Imam praised the significant and tangible efforts made by medical teams, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, to alleviate the pain and protect the lives of patients.

The Minister of Health expressed his happiness at meeting the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and his great appreciation for the efforts of Al-Azhar in spreading the values of moderation. He noted the Ministry of Health's commitment to providing medical personnel in various specialties in all governorates to facilitate access to health services for deserving patients.

He also affirmed the Ministry's efforts to enhance cooperation with Al-Azhar University in the areas of doctors' training, providing medical equipment and supplies to university hospitals, and supporting Al-Azhar nursing institutes and colleges by providing practical training to female students within the Ministry's hospitals.

Following the meeting, His Eminence the Grand Imam and the Minister of Health witnessed the signing of a cooperation protocol between the Ministry and Al-Azhar Islamic Research Academy (AIRA). The protocol aims to enhance research and scientific cooperation, organize joint conferences, seminars, and awareness programs, exchange expertise and visits, and provide training programs. The protocol also aims to spread religious and health awareness among various segments of society, raise awareness of the importance of early screening and disease prevention, promote presidential health initiatives, and provide medical services, especially for those who would soon be married.