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Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders Embarks on a Tour of Southeast Asia starting on Monday

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, will embark on a tour of Southeast Asia, visiting Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand at the beginning of next month. The tour follows several official invitations extended by the three nations to discuss ways to enhance cooperation, strengthen Al-Azhar’s role, leverage its expertise, and expand its educational and religious services in these countries. The visit will also explore opportunities for increased collaboration with relevant official and religious institutions in Southeast Asia.

During the tour, His Eminence will meet with numerous officials, religious and cultural leaders, and community figures in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. His Eminence is also keen to hold meetings with university students and youth to discuss pressing religious and social issues and will engage with imams, preachers, muftis, and those responsible for religious and fatwa institutions.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, condemns the terrorist attacks on two Orthodox churches and a Jewish synagogue in the Republic of Dagestan in Russia, which resulted in several deaths and injuries.

The Council firmly rejects such criminal acts that contradict all religions, divine laws, international conventions, and norms that call for respecting the beliefs and sanctities of others and that also criminalize attacks on places of worship, and protect the lives of innocent civilians. The Council warns of the escalation of hate speech, racism, intolerance, and practices that lead to discord and chaos, as they contribute to igniting and exacerbating conflicts. It calls for efforts to reinforce the values of tolerance, coexistence, and peace among different peoples and cultures.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the Russian Federation and to the families of the victims, praying to Allah Almighty to grant the injured a swift recovery.

On the World Day Against Child Labour – Muslim Council of Elders: Protecting Children’s Rights is a Religious and Ethical Duty, and a Social Responsibility for Everyone

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, emphasizes that securing the care and guaranteeing the fundamental rights of children is a religious and ethical duty, as well as a social responsibility requiring serious commitment from individuals, institutions, and governments. Islam places great importance on children, considering them essential pillars in building the future of nations and it advocates for their proper upbringing, protection, and respect for their inherent rights, including the right to life, healthcare, and education.

In a statement marking the World Day Against Child Labour, observed annually on June 12, the council asserts that exploiting children by forcing them into labor unsuitable for their age constitutes a grave violation of their childhood. This practice also exposes them to severe health and psychological risks and poses a significant threat to their future. The council calls for intensified efforts to combat child labor through effective policies and measures aimed at eradicating this phenomenon, ensuring the necessary care for children so they can grow and develop in conditions that preserve their dignity and prepare them to become active members of their communities.

The statement also references the Document on Human Fraternity, which was co-signed by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb and His Holiness Pope Francis in Abu Dhabi in 2019. This document underscores that the fundamental rights of children to family upbringing, nutrition, education, and care are moral responsibilities for both the family and society. These rights must be provided and defended, and no child should be deprived of them anywhere. The Council also condemns any practices that undermine children’s dignity or violate their rights and stresses the need to address the risks and violations they face.

The Muslim Council of Elders participated in a meeting as part of the 60th session of the Bonn Climate Conference (SB 60). The meeting discussed the role of religious institutions in promoting global climate action, alongside the UNFCCC Secretariat, the Interfaith Liaison Committee (ILC), representatives from the COP28 and COP29 Presidencies, and other faith-based organizations.

The meeting, held at the headquarters of the UNFCCC Secretariat in Bonn, Germany, aimed to strategize on how religious institutions can continue to engage and support countries to achieve the highest ambitions in climate action, contributing to the realization of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by 2025.

During the meeting, the Muslim Council of Elders team highlighted the influential role of religious institutions and communities through their moral authority, extensive networks, and commitment to social justice. They also emphasized the necessity of leveraging this role to enhance decisive climate actions and NDCs in the coming years. Participants also noted the importance of constructive collaboration among representatives of religious communities and the urgent need to establish a unified framework to address climate challenges.

The Muslim Council of Elders has dedicated significant efforts to activating the role of religious leaders and figures in addressing climate change. Notably, the Council organized the Global Faith Leaders Summit for Climate, which culminated in the publishing of the “Abu Dhabi Joint Declaration for Climate,” which was co-signed by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, alongside 28 other religious leaders. Additionally, the Council organized the first-ever Faith Pavilion in the history of COP conferences at COP28, providing a global platform that brought together religious leaders, environmental experts, academics, and representatives of youth, women, and indigenous peoples to explore the best ways to preserve planet Earth and protect its natural resources.

Discussion of the Muslim Council of Elders’ efforts in combating climate change during the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar’s meeting with the President of Azerbaijan

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders has today met Ilham Aliyev, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, to discuss enhancing mutual relations and cooperation.

During the meeting, His Eminence affirmed his readiness to increase efforts in training imams and preachers from Azerbaijan through a tailor-made program for Azerbaijan’s unique characteristics and aspirations. His Eminence also emphasized the importance of achieving Islamic solidarity, which is one of the challenges facing the Muslim community today. He also stressed that Islamic unity is the only way for Muslims to regain their significant position in the new global order.

The Grand Imam expressed his willingness to elevate cooperation with Azerbaijan at all levels, including collaboration with the Administration of Muslims of the Caucasus under Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazadeh’s leadership. He also proposed establishing a center for Arabic language education in Baku to serve Azerbaijani Muslims in learning the language of the Holy Quran. His Eminence also highlighted the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders and the important initiatives in collaboration with Azerbaijan during COP29, looking forward to more initiatives and enhanced cooperation between Azerbaijan, Al-Azhar, and the Muslim Council of Elders.

For his part, President Aliyev expressed his pleasure at meeting His Eminence the Grand Imam, while emphasizing Azerbaijan’s readiness to enhance mutual cooperation for Islamic unity. He noted Azerbaijan’s practical efforts to strengthen relations and coordination among Islamic nations by adopting a strategy to bring Islamic nations closer.  

President Aliyev also noted that Azerbaijan has hosted several events to promote religious diversity and enhance dialogue between cultures and religions. He highlighted that Muslims in Azerbaijan live in stability and peace alongside fellow citizens from other religions, which makes Azerbaijan a model of coexistence among different faiths and cultures.

The President of Azerbaijan also extended an official invitation to His Eminence the Grand Imam to visit Azerbaijan and participate in COP29, as well as to hold meetings with representatives of various religious bodies in Azerbaijan. His Eminence welcomed the invitation and expressed his hope that COP29 would be successful and lead Azerbaijan towards further development and prosperity. He emphasized the importance of coordination between global decision-makers and religious leaders, particularly regarding the climate change crisis and humanitarian challenges, especially during this chaotic global period when the roles of major international institutions have diminished.

President Aliyev was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including Jeyhun Bayramov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs; Hikmet Hajiyev, Foreign Policy Advisor to the President of Azerbaijan; His Eminence Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazadeh, member of the Muslim Council of Elders and spiritual leader of Muslims in Azerbaijan and the Caucasus; Ramin Mammadov, Chairman of the State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations in Azerbaijan; and Dr. Elkhan Polukhov, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Egypt.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, emphasizes that Islam places great importance on protecting and preserving the environment and that Almighty Allah created the universe and everything in it with meticulous care and precision, appointing humanity to be responsible for earth’s care and protection.

In a statement marking World Environment Day on June 5, the Council notes that humanity today faces severe environmental challenges that threaten the future of life on Earth, our shared home. Global warming, climate change, pollution, and resource scarcity are causing destructive impacts on ecosystems and communities, accelerating conflicts and hindering global efforts to establish peace and promote values of tolerance and coexistence. The Council calls for cooperation and unity among individuals, institutions, and governments to change daily behaviors, enhance sustainability concepts, and reduce environmental risks, aiming to build a better and sustainable future for the coming generations.

The statement also highlights that the Muslim Council of Elders is dedicated to raising awareness about climate and environmental issues and enhancing the role of religious leaders in addressing them. Significant efforts include organizing the Global Summit of Religious Leaders for Climate, which culminated in His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, alongside 28 other religious leaders, co-signing the “Call of Conscience: Abu Dhabi Joint Statement for Climate.” Additionally, the Council organized the first-ever Faith Pavilion at COP28, which provided a global platform for interfaith dialogue to adopt ambitious and effective measures that promote environmental justice and encourage the sustainable use of natural resources.

His Excellency Abdel-Wahab Abdel-Razeq, Senate Speaker of the Arab Republic of Egypt, accompanied by Her Excellency Ibtisam Rakha, Egypt’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, and several officials, visited the Muslim Council of Elders’ regional office for Central Asia, located in the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana. The visiting delegation were received by Dr. Darkhan Kydyrali, the General Supervisor of the Council’s central Asian office.

During the visit, His Excellency Abdel-Wahab Abdel-Razeq emphasized the importance of the role of religious leaders in promoting a culture of acceptance and mutual respect among followers of different faiths, combating racism, intolerance, and violence, and establishing peace and harmony in societies. He noted that the close friendship and fraternity between His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church which serves as an inspiring model of joint efforts among religious leaders to promote global peace and peaceful coexistence among peoples. He also praised the Grand Imam’s efforts in promoting moderate thought and combating extremism and terrorism.

The Egyptian Senate Speaker and accompanying delegation were also briefed on the key efforts and initiatives undertaken by the Muslim Council of Elders in Central Asia. He commended the pioneering role of the Council and its regional branch in spreading and promoting the values of tolerance and coexistence among different peoples and cultures, and expanding its geographical engagement with Muslim communities around the world. He also expressed his best wishes for the Council’s continued progress and success in its efforts to establish and enhance the values of peace and build bridges of communication and peaceful coexistence among all people, regardless of their differences.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam has met with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Justin Welby. During their meeting, the pair discussed the importance of enhancing the role of religious leaders in peacebuilding, especially in light of the various challenges facing the world today. The Archbishop of Canterbury praised the wisdom of the Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Eminence Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and the Council’s initiatives in promoting and strengthening the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam has received His Excellency Ramin Mammadov, the Chairman of the State Committee on Affairs with Religious Associations in the Republic of Azerbaijan, at the Council’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi. The meeting focused on ways to enhance cooperation in interfaith and intercultural dialogue and mechanisms to empower religious leaders in addressing global challenges.

During the meeting, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence  Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, places great importance on activating the role of religious leaders in addressing global challenges which include promoting peace and fostering coexistence among followers of different religions and sects. He also praised Azerbaijan’s pioneering experience in establishing values of communication and understanding between religions as well as enhancing Islamic solidarity, and striving for peace in Asia and the world.

For his part, His Excellency Ramin Mammadov commended the effective role of the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting and enhancing the values of human fraternity, tolerance, and building bridges of dialogue and cultural communication. He further highlighted the Council’s prominent role in involving religious leaders in tackling climate change and affirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to implementing a leading approach that fosters coexistence among various cultural and religious components in the country. He also expressed his desire for further fruitful cooperation with the Muslim Council of Elders to support efforts aimed at enhancing and achieving stability and development for different communities and peoples.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, praises the Arab quintet statement issued by the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, and Egypt. This statement supports the mediation efforts led by Cairo, Doha, and Washington to achieve a prisoner exchange deal that would lead to a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages and detainees, and adequate entry of aid into the Gaza Strip.

The Muslim Council of Elders fully endorses these mediation efforts, aimed at stopping the aggression on the Gaza Strip, ending the resulting humanitarian catastrophe, ensuring the complete withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from the strip, and launching a reconstruction process as part of a comprehensive plan to implement the two-state solution in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions, with specific timelines and binding guarantees.

The Council also emphasizes the urgent need to de-escalate tensions across all occupied Palestinian territories, to end the suffering of the Palestinian people that has persisted for over seven decades, and to affirm the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.