Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Meets with Indonesian Vice-President

Dr. Ma'ruf Amin, Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia, received His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders to discuss ways to enhance mutual cooperation.

Dr. Ma'ruf Amin emphasized the importance of His Eminence's visit due to the deep affection and respect the Indonesian people have for him. He highlighted that Al-Azhar is highly trusted by Indonesians as their primary religious and scholarly reference, playing a crucial role in shaping the relationship between Egypt and Indonesia. He noted Indonesia's intention to elevate its academic relations with Al-Azhar by establishing an office for the development of education for incoming students in Indonesia to prepare them before they commence their studies at Al-Azhar University, considering these students as the future scholars and leaders of their communities.

The Vice President of Indonesia also expressed his appreciation for the efforts made in coordinating cooperation between the Egyptian Zakat and Charity House, Al-Azhar’s charitable arm, and the Indonesian Zakat and Charity Authority, particularly in organizing humanitarian aid convoys to Gaza. He reaffirmed Indonesia's support for the rights of the Palestinian people, as demonstrated by Indonesia's advocacy against the oppression, displacement, and violence faced by Palestinians in Gaza at various international forums.

Dr. Ma'ruf Amin emphasized the need for continued collaboration with Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders to accurately present Islam globally, especially in an era where Islam is falsely accused of promoting violence and extremism. He stressed the importance of clarifying Islam's moderation and compassion and addressing the false allegations against it to Western youth, pointing out the rising threat of Islamophobia in Western countries and its impact on the security and stability of Muslim communities.