Grand Imam of Al Azhar invited to UAE 'human fraternity' summit

UAE to host Global Conference for Human Fraternity next year

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed meets Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb at Al Azhar University in Cairo. WAM

The Grand Imam of Al Azhar has been invited to participate in the UAE's Global Conference for Human Fraternity in February next year.

The invitation from Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces was handed to Dr Ahmed Al Tayeb during his meeting with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed at the Al Azhar headquarters in Cairo.

During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation discussed several issues facing the Islamic world, reported state news agency Wam.

The pair also discussed efforts to spread values of tolerance, peace and moderation around the world and countering extremism and hatred.

Dr Al Tayeb thanked Sheikh Mohamed for his invitation to take part in the conference.

The meeting was attended by Juma Al Junaibi, UAE Ambassador to Egypt, and Dr Sultan Al Rumaithi, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders.

The news follows last week's announcement that Pope Francis will make a landmark visit to the Emirates on February 3 to 5.