Minister of Awqaf Osama Al-Azhari said Egypt’s message to the Muslim world is rooted in security, development, moderation, and knowledge, while calling for global cooperation and an end to wars during the fifth International Islamic Thought Forum at Imam Hussein Mosque in Cairo.
The event brought together scholars, religious leaders, and intellectuals from 53 countries, alongside Egyptian and international university students, in what the ministry described as part of Egypt’s broader efforts to promote moderate religious discourse and intellectual dialogue.
Speaking during the forum, Al-Azhari said the message to the world’s two billion Muslims is centered on “security and development, protection from extremism, competition in science, building civilization, and upholding noble values and ethics.” He added that Egypt’s message to humanity at large is one of coexistence, good neighborliness, extinguishing the flames of war, and building bridges of cooperation instead of conflict.
The minister stressed that honoring parents represents “a path to safety and salvation,” while knowledge remains essential to shaping awareness and refining human thought. He also described the Muslim nation as one founded on generosity, charity, and human development.
The forum continued discussions of Al-Adab Al-Mufrad by Imam Al-Bukhari, focusing on the chapter dealing with disobedience to parents, which Al-Azhari described as one of the gravest sins. Drawing on prophetic traditions, he highlighted the importance of family values, social responsibility, and ethical conduct in Islamic teachings.
Al-Azhari also warned against harmful speech, misinformation, and excessive argumentation, emphasizing that Islam encourages constructive learning and thoughtful inquiry rather than division and empty debate. He linked scientific learning and moral awareness to the broader need for balanced societies capable of confronting extremism and social fragmentation.
Participants from countries including Albania, Cameroon, Kenya, Greece, Ivory Coast, Cambodia, and Azerbaijan praised Egypt’s role in promoting moderate Islamic thought and fostering international religious dialogue. Former Grand Mufti Shawki Allam said the forum reflects Egypt’s ongoing efforts to deepen understanding of the Prophet’s teachings and reinforce values of mercy and social cohesion.
The gathering concluded with religious chants and prayers in a spiritual atmosphere attended by senior scholars, officials, and students from Egypt and abroad.
