Egypt’s Grand Imam praises UAE support

Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State, with the Sheikh of Al Azhar, Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb, who thanked the UAE for its support to Egypt. Wam

The Sheikh of Al Azhar has expressed his gratitude to the UAE for its continuing support of Egyptians and praised the country’s recently issued anti-discrimination law.

“The UAE’s initiative to support the people of Egypt will never be forgotten,” Dr Ahmed El Tayeb, Egypt’s Grand Imam, told a delegation led by Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of State and chairman of the liaison office for the two countries.

“The gesture articulates the UAE leadership’s commitment towards Arab and Muslim nations and builds upon the legacy of the nation’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed, may God have mercy on his soul.”

The UAE on Tuesday announced projects it is believed will benefit more than 10 million Egyptians.

More than 900,000 part-time and permanent jobs have been created as part of the projects in energy, education, health care, transport, food security and housing.

Progress on various UAE-funded Al Azhar projects were discussed.

They include four women’s dormitories covering 5,500 metres, a 14,000 square-metre library and the establishment of an Islamic Division Institute that can accommodate up to 1,500 students.

Dr El Tayeb also applauded the anti-discrimination law that came into effect last month.

“The law sends out a strong message to the world that the UAE and its leadership reject all racial and discriminatory attitudes,” he said.

“It also illustrates the nation’s unshakeable faith and culture that embodies tolerance and peace.

“This law is a stance against hatred and violence and therefore will foster cooperation between the UAE and the rest of the world.”