Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Dr Ahmed el-Tayyeb has praised deep relations with Somalia, noting that more than 2,400 Somali students receive education at the different institutions of Al Azhar.

Tayyeb, during a meeting with Somali Ambassador in Cairo Ali Abdi Aware Sunday, said Al Azhar also provided training for a number of Somali imams and preachers.

The meeting took up means of boosting support for Al Azhar dawa and educational activities in Somalia.

The Grand Imam voiced solidarity with the Somali people in the face of challenges and conflicts that hinder development and progress.

Aware said his country very much appreciates efforts exerted by Tayyeb to support Somali students and help Somalia with its fight against terrorism and extremism.

Somalia greatly counts on graduates of Al-Azhar to counter extremism and refute extremist ideologies, the diplomat added.

Source: State Information Service Egypt