His Eminence Prof. Ahmad Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar received H.E. Prabowo Subianto, President of Indonesia, at Al-Azhar headquarters to explore avenues for enhancing mutual cooperation. During the meeting, the Grand Imam warmly welcomed President Subianto and the accompanying delegation, emphasizing the enduring historical ties between Al-Azhar and Indonesia. He noted with pride that Al-Azhar currently hosts approximately 15,000 Indonesian students across various educational levels. They are distinguished by their dedication to learning and upholding high moral standards.
The Grand Imam reaffirmed Al-Azhar's commitment to addressing Indonesia's needs with regard to training imams and preachers at Al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Preachers. He highlighted that the academy has already trained 300 Indonesian imams and expressed readiness to increase the number of scholars and teachers sent to Indonesia, currently numbering 47. Additionally, he commended the partnership between the Egyptian Zakat and Charities Fund, Al-Azhar’s charitable arm, and Indonesian charitable organizations, in providing humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, who have been under fire for more than one year.
Emphasizing the critical importance of Arab and Muslim unity, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar stated that solidarity is essential for confronting the challenges facing the Muslim world. He called for prioritizing common interests and fostering brotherhood among nations. He also expressed gratitude for Indonesia’s role in hosting the regional office of the Muslim Council of Elders and its participation in the World Alliance for Religions organized by the Council under the theme, "Religions for Development and Peace".
In response, President Subianto expressed his pleasure at meeting the Grand Imam for a second time, following their initial encounter in Jakarta. He conveyed deep appreciation for Al-Azhar's efforts in supporting Indonesian students and acknowledged the esteemed reputation of Al-Azhar graduates in promoting social peace and coexistence within Indonesian society. He also noted the significant influence of former President Abdurrahman Wahid, a proud alumnus of Al-Azhar.
President Subianto remarked on the sorrow felt in Indonesia regarding the situation in Gaza, emphasizing that events affecting Arabs and Muslims resonate deeply within his country. He expressed confidence in the potential for Muslim nations to reclaim their influential role on the global stage through their vast human resources and natural wealth. The President reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to fostering unity within the Muslim world while actively working to mitigate internal conflicts.
Furthermore, the Indonesian President welcomed Indonesia’s opportunity to host the inaugural conference of the Muslim Council of Elders titled "Religions for Development and Peace," pledging full support for its success.
This meeting underscores a shared commitment to collaboration between Al-Azhar and Indonesia in promoting values of peace, coexistence, and unity within the global Muslim community.