The Grand Mufti of Egypt, Dr. Shawqi Allam, received a delegation of the heads of Egyptian churches headed by Mounir Hanna, Diocesan Bishop of Egypt, North Africa and the Horn of Africa and Dr. Bishoy Helmi, Secretary-General of the Council of Churches in Egypt as they congratulated the Grand Mufti on the occasion of his appointment.

The delegation said that the close ties between Muslims and Christians are long standing and all attempts at harming the unity of Egyptians or at creating sectarian strife are futile because all Egyptians are part of Egypt’s national fabric. They added that the noble Azhar and Dar al-Ifta are trusted by all Egyptians and constitute the safety valve for Egypt and the world against deviant and extremist thought.

The delegation communicated to Dr. Allam the greetings of Pope Tawadrus, the Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the See of St. Mark, and the greetings of the heads of Egyptian churches as well as their wishes for success.

Dr. Shawqi Allam said, “All Egyptians, Muslims and Christians, are partners in the nation and we will work together to build the country and achieve stability.” He added, “We will continue to cooperate and open channels for dialogue with our Christian brothers in Egypt and the world.” He stressed that it is necessary for Egyptians, both Muslims and Christians, to stand together and work out a way to end the crisis facing our dear Egypt.