VOInews, Cairo: During his state visit to Egypt, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a crucial meeting with Grand Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the esteemed leader of Al-Azhar, at Mashiaket Al-Azhar in Cairo on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. This encounter marks a significant step in bolstering religious relations and deepening educational cooperation between Indonesia and Egypt—two nations bound by a long-standing and robust historical connection. The visit further underscores both countries’ commitment to promoting peace and interfaith harmony on a global scale.
Upon his arrival at Mashiaket Al-Azhar, President Prabowo was warmly welcomed by Grand Sheikh Al-Tayeb and a distinguished group of prominent Egyptian scholars. His presence at this revered institution symbolizes not only the enduring friendship between Indonesia and Al-Azhar but also reflects the longstanding educational ties, with Al-Azhar having served as a beacon of learning for thousands of Indonesian students over the decades.
During the subsequent meeting, President Prabowo and Grand Sheikh Al-Tayeb engaged in in-depth discussions focusing on enhancing educational collaboration and interfaith outreach between the two nations. This dialogue is expected to reinforce the historical bonds that have long characterized Indonesia’s relationship with Al-Azhar, an institution renowned not only for its academic excellence but also as a global hub for promoting unity and religious tolerance.
This visit marks the second encounter between President Prabowo and Grand Sheikh Al-Tayeb, following a previous meeting in Indonesia last July. Such consistent engagements highlight the ongoing commitment to fostering cross-cultural and interreligious dialogue, which remains central to both countries’ shared vision of peace and mutual understanding.
Indonesia and Egypt have long enjoyed a profound partnership, with Al-Azhar standing as a cornerstone in the realm of educational and religious cooperation. President Prabowo emphasized the critical role Al-Azhar continues to play in shaping a generation of Indonesians committed to promoting tolerance, understanding, and respect across faiths.
The visit also reinforces the two nations’ collective resolve to advance global peace and stability. Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to intensifying cooperation in the realms of education and religious discourse, aimed at nurturing a future generation that embraces mutual respect and harmonious coexistence.
In the course of the meeting, President Prabowo was accompanied by Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya and Indonesia’s Ambassador to Cairo, Lutfi Rauf. The presence of these key officials underscores Indonesia’s steadfast support for strengthening bilateral ties with Egypt, particularly in the spheres of religious affairs and education.
Source: www.presidenri.go.id