Cairo: The Grand Imam Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar, led a high-level delegation to visit His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, the Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, to extend congratulations on Christmas and Easter.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the visit took place on Monday, January 5, 2026, and was marked by expressions of unity and brotherhood. The Grand Imam conveyed his greetings to Pope Tawadros II and the Christian community, emphasizing the importance of human brotherhood and national unity. He highlighted Al-Azhar's dedication to promoting 'citizenship' and eliminating divisive terms like 'minorities.'

During their discussion, the Grand Imam reflected on global conflicts and the need for wisdom and righteousness to prevail. He called for an end to wars that have led to significant setbacks for humanity and urged for a resurgence of civilization rooted in peace rather than destruction.

Pope Tawadros II warmly received the Grand Imam and his delegation, expressing joy at the visit and the spirit of goodwill it represented. He congratulated the Grand Imam on his 80th birthday and underscored the message of peace symbolized by the birth of Jesus Christ. The Pope also mentioned the shared mission of spreading peace and prayed for those suffering in conflict regions like Sudan, Gaza, and Yemen.

The leaders also discussed the expansion efforts of the House of the Church across various governorates, stressing the importance of supporting initiatives that foster harmony and mitigate sectarian tensions.

The Grand Imam was accompanied by key figures including Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, Minister of Religious Endowments; Dr. Nazir Ayad, Grand Mufti of Egypt; Dr. Salama Daoud, President of Al-Azhar University; and Dr. Abbas Shuman, Secretary-General of the Council of Senior Scholars and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the World Organization for Al-Azhar Graduates.