Egypt and Kyrgyzstan discussed ways to strengthen co-operation between their religious institutions, particularly in training muftis, developing religious discourse and countering extremist ideas, officials said Saturday.
Egypt’s Grand Mufti Nazir Ayyad stressed the importance of investing in the training and capacity-building of muftis to provide them with the scientific and intellectual tools needed to address emerging and contemporary issues.
Such training would enable muftis to issue responsible fatwas, or religious edicts, based on sound knowledge while taking into account changing realities and the specific characteristics of different societies, Ayyad said.
He also underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation among fatwa institutions to counter extremist ideas and promote moderation and tolerance.
Ayyad made the remarks during a meeting in Cairo with Sheikh Abdul Aziz Zakirov, chairman of the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kyrgyzstan, on the sidelines of the 11th International Conference of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide.
The two sides discussed cooperation in training muftis, qualifying religious officials and developing religious discourse. They also explored the exchange of expertise in countering extremist ideas and promoting a moderate approach.
Zakirov described the meeting as an important opportunity to exchange views and expertise, praising Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta for its role in advancing fatwa work and the conference’s approach to contemporary issues.
He stressed the importance of continued cooperation in addressing intellectual and social challenges, particularly those facing families and society.
