His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, met with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, on the sidelines of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) hosted in Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22, 2024.
The meeting focused on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and explored cooperation in fostering dialogue and understanding on both regional and international scales. Both His Highness and the Grand Imam discussed the COP29 conference, emphasized the crucial role of religious leaders and institutions in heightening awareness about climate change risks. Additionally, they highlighted the importance of preserving the environment and the necessity of advancing international climate action for the benefit of humanity and safeguarding the planet from emerging threats.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his appreciation for the civilizational role played by Al-Azhar Al-Sharif on the global stage, particularly in promoting moderation and coexistence. On his part, the Grand Imam thanked His Highness for the support provided by the United Arab Emirates to Al-Azhar and praised the UAE's humanitarian approach in the region and worldwide.
The meeting was attended by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Presidential Court for Special Affairs; His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Advisor of Special Affairs at the Presidential Court; His Excellency Dr. Sultan bin Ahmad Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology; His Eminence Dr. Nazir Ayad, Grand Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt; and His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders.