Sarah Saad
Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, made a series of foreign visits in 2024, which underscored the cultural message of Al-Azhar and affirmed its commitment to supporting Islamic and humanitarian causes.
These tours took Sheikh al-Tayeb to countries, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the UAE, and Azerbaijan.
They focused on entrenching the values of tolerance, countering extremism, and addressing environmental and humanitarian issues.
In July 2024, Sheikh al-Tayeb visited Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.
He met the Malaysian king and prime minister and delivered lectures on the challenges facing Islamic countries and Muslims. He also inaugurated the Council of Scientists and Youth to promote moderation.
Sheikh al-Tayeb also travelled to Thailand where he was received by the king and the prime minister. He toured the Thai parliament where he announced an increase in the number of scholarships and training courses for Thai students, stressing support for the Palestinian cause.
The grand imam of Al-Azhar also met the Indonesian president to discuss and sign educational academic protocols. He also highlighted the need to confront Islamophobia and support Palestine.
In September 2024, Sheikh al-Tayeb met United Arab Emirates President, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, to discuss means of promoting the values of coexistence and combating hatred.
He visited Azerbaijan in November 2024 to participate in the Climate Conference where he discussed with global leaders environmental and humanitarian issues, focusing on supporting the Palestinian cause.
These tours focused on civilised dialogue, spreading moderation, and supporting Islamic causes, thus enhancing Al-Azhar’s position as a global intellectual and religious institution.
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