Cairo: Awqaf Minister Osama Al-Azhari has announced that the 32nd International Holy Quran Competition is a major global event for which the ministry prepares throughout the year. Al-Azhari made these remarks during his address at the competition's opening ceremony, attended by ministers of health and population and youth and sports, Egypt's Mufti, and senior state and religious officials.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the event has shown significant progress over the years, with this year's edition drawing participants from more than 70 countries. This wide-ranging participation reflects the competition's growing international significance.

This year's competition is dedicated to the late renowned reciter, Sheikh Al-Shahhat Mohamed Anwar. The event was inaugurated by Sheikh Mahmoud Al-Shahhat, his son, who commenced the ceremony with a Qur'anic recitation, symbolizing the continuation of his father's distinguished legacy.