Al-Azhar Al-Sharif expresses highly appreciates the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution calling for taking the necessary measures to combat Islamophobia. According to the resolution, a UN special envoy to combat Islamophobia is appointed to ward off hatred or incitement of violence against Muslims. Al-Azhar hopes that this resolution would eliminate the phenomenon of Islamophobia and minimize high rates of hatred against Muslims in the West and elsewhere, noting that it comes at a critical time that witnesses recurrent attacks against Islamic sanctities and symbols. Al-Azhar calls upon all people to genuinely understand Islam in order to get acquainted with its principles and values that call for acceptance, peaceful coexistence and cooperation, and mutual respect.
In the same context, Al-Azhar expresses its deep appreciation for the speech of Mr. António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, delivered following the announcement of the resolution, in which he described Islamophobia as "”a vicious plague that represents a complete denial and ignorance of Islam and Muslims and their undeniable contributions.” Al-Azhar stresses that Mr. Guterres’ speech reflects his true knowledge about the message of Islam and reveals an in-depth reading and a profound understanding of the essence of this faith. As we thank this brave man, we affirm that such stances, as and when declared by wise leaders, contribute greatly to containing and preventing fanaticism and hatred among followers of religions, and also strengthen the culture of dialogue, acceptance of others, and coexistence.