Al-Azhar Grand Imam Receives Aga Khan V to Discuss Collaborative Initiatives

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, received Aga Khan V, leader of the Ismaili community and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, to explore avenues for enhancing mutual cooperation.

His Eminence emphasized that the mission of Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders centers on promoting peace and fostering human fraternity among all people. This commitment has fostered openness to collaboration with religious and cultural institutions worldwide to realize this noble objective. He highlighted the initiative to convene the inaugural Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference in the Kingdom of Bahrain, aimed at strengthening bonds of fraternity within the diverse fabric of the Muslim world, moving beyond past divisions, and establishing a platform to unify the voices of Islamic scholars and religious institutions in addressing the crises and challenges confronting the Muslim world.

His Eminence affirmed a commitment to deepening cooperation with the Aga Khan Development Network through joint developmental and awareness initiatives, particularly those targeting youth and addressing contemporary challenges. He noted that the Muslim Council of Elders, under his leadership, possesses extensive experience in such impactful projects in partnership with Al-Azhar, with the goal of promoting moderation, tolerance, and an accurate representation of Islam.

For his part, Aga Khan V expressed commended the Grand Imam for his significant efforts to present an authentic portrayal of Islam and advance the values of human fraternity. He praised His Eminence’s initiatives to unify the Muslim world and expressed his eagerness to strengthen partnerships with Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders to promote Islam’s moderation and tolerance, especially among youth in Europe.

Aga Khan V stated, “We are delighted at the prospect of collaboration across various fields with your Eminence. Our extensive development network focuses on culture, awareness, and education in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan. Additionally, through numerous projects, we strive to promote awareness of Islam’s tolerant essence in several European countries.”