Cairo: Sheikh Ahmed El-Tayyeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, expressed deep sorrow following the death of Pope Francis, calling him a ‘distinguished humanitarian and dear friend.’

According to State Information Service Egypt, the Pope, who passed away at the age of 88, died one day after making a public appearance in Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, the Vatican confirmed. Pope Francis had been battling severe health issues, including pneumonia, and had been hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February, where he faced multiple respiratory crises. At one point, he came close to death on two separate occasions.

In a heartfelt tribute posted on Facebook, El-Tayyeb praised the Pope for his unwavering dedication to humanity, describing him as a figure who ‘dedicated his life to serving humanity, advocating for the oppressed, refugees, and the marginalized.’ The Grand Imam also highlighted the Pope’s commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding among different cultures and religions.

El-Tayyeb wrote, “Today, the world has lost a distinguished symbol of humanity. He was a true friend to Muslims, sincere in his pursuit of peace, and his final statements, particularly in defense of Palestine and the oppressed people of Gaza, remain etched in our memories.”

The Grand Imam also reflected on Pope Francis’s enduring contributions to global peace and religious harmony, recalling the Pope’s firm stand against Islamophobia and his compassion for those suffering worldwide. Al-Azhar’s statement also acknowledged the significant development in relations between the Vatican and the renowned Islamic institution under Pope Francis’s leadership.

A landmark moment in this collaboration came in 2017 when the Pope participated in the Al-Azhar International Peace Conference, followed by the signing of the historic “Document on Human Fraternity” in 2019 – an achievement that, according to Al-Azhar, would not have been possible without Pope Francis’s genuine commitment.

The Imam extended his condolences to the global Catholic community and Pope Francis’s family, offering prayers for their comfort during this time of mourning.