HM the King pays visit to Al-Azhar Al-Sharif

Cairo, Apr 27 (BNA): His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, within the framework of his official visit to Egypt, today paid a visit to Al-Azhar Al-Sharif. HM the King was received on arrival by the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif; Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb; Deputy Grand Imam Dr. Abbas Shuman; Al-Azhar University President Dr. Ibrahim Al-Hudhud; members of Muslim Council of Elders Dr. Mahmoud Hamdi Zakzouk, Dr. Abdulfatah Baraka, Dr. Mohammed Abdulfadhil Al-Kussi, Dr. Nasir Fareed Wasil; Adisor to Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Judge Mohammed Abdulsalam; Islamic Researches Sec-Gen Muhyialdine Afifi; Head of Al-Azhar Institutes Dr. Mohammed Abu-Zaid Al-Amir and a number of officials. The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in his speech, welcomed the visit of HM the King and the associating delegation to Egypt and Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, praising HM the King's statesmanship and acute vision in handling various situations. He affirmed Al-Azhar's stance on addressing the calls of division and extremism aimed at undermining the Arab region's security and stability and sowing discord among Muslims. He stressed that loyalty to the homeland is a vital pillar of the Islamic law. HM the King gave a keynote speech, in which, expressed thanks to the Al-Azhar Grand Imam for his supportive stances towards Bahrain, praising Al-Azhar's promotion for principles of moderation, coexistence and defending the right. HM the King expressed happiness about his visit to Egypt, praised the fraternal historical relations bonding the two countries and their people, praying to Almighty God the cooperation relations to continue in all fields. HM the King lauded the leading role of Al-Azhar in defending Muslims issues. He expressed appreciation of the Grand Imam's efforts in the dissemination of the moderate Islamic ideology. HM the King wished Egypt further security, progress and prosperity. The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar before seeing off HM the King presented him with a commemorative gift and wished him good health and happiness.