Cairo, Egypt – 24 February 2025
The Centre of Christian-Muslim Understanding & Partnership (CCMUP), an affiliated organization to the Anglican Diocese of Egypt that is led by Archbishop Dr. Samy Fawzy, organized a visit on Monday 24 February 2025 to Al-Azhar Observatory for Countering Extremism, directed by Dr. Reḥam Selama. The delegation then proceeded to Dār al-Iftāʾ al-Miṣriyya, where they were received by the Grand Mufti of Egypt, H.E. Dr. Naẓīr ʿAyād. Both visits provided participants with an in-depth overview of the work of these institutions in promoting peace, countering extremism, and fostering interfaith dialogue. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in Q&A sessions with senior institutional and religious leaders, deepening their understanding of Egypt’s efforts in combating radical ideologies and strengthening social cohesion.
The delegation included diplomats, clergy, international students, and scholars, among them H.E. Ambassador Amy Laurenson, Ambassador of New Zealand in Egypt. The event was part of CCMUP’s newly inaugurated Forum for Religion, Peace & Global Affairs, an initiative aimed at fostering constructive discussions on global interfaith cooperation and peace-building efforts.
CCMUP plays a key role in promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperation within Egyptian society and beyond. Established to bridge gaps between Christian and Muslim communities, the Centre focuses on peace-building community initiatives, conducting conflict resolution trainings and countering sectarian tensions.
The Al-Azhar Observatory for Countering Extremism is a vital institution within Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, dedicated to monitoring extremist rhetoric and providing counter-narratives that promote coexistence and balanced moderate beliefs. It plays a crucial role in analyzing radical ideologies and addressing misconceptions about Islam.
Similarly, Dār al-Iftāʾ al-Miṣriyya, as Egypt’s primary authority for issuing religious edicts (fatwas), provides guidance rooted in moderate Islamic thought. The institution helps combat extremist interpretations of Islam and supports social and religious harmony in Egypt and beyond.
Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and Dār al-Iftāʾ hold immense historical and religious significance for Sunni Muslims worldwide. Founded over a thousand years ago, Al-Azhar remains the most influential Islamic institution globally, shaping religious discourse and scholarship. Dār al-Iftāʾ, established in 1895, continues to be a cornerstone of Islamic jurisprudence and religious authority in Egypt and across the Muslim world.
The visit also underscored the importance of the long-standing partnership between the Anglican/Episcopal Church and Al-Azhar Al-Sharif. This relationship was formally recognized with the signing of a dialogue agreement on 30 January 2002 at Lambeth Palace in the UK. The agreement committed both institutions to promoting interfaith peace, tolerance, and cooperation, laying the foundation for ongoing collaboration in addressing global religious challenges.
Dr. Rev. Matthew Anderson, Director of CCMUP’s Academic Studies, led the organization of this event, emphasizing the importance of academic and interfaith engagement in tackling global issues. He also highlighted the critical role of cooperation between CCMUP, the Anglican Diocese of Egypt, Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, Dār al-Iftāʾ, and the Al-Azhar Observatory for Countering Extremism, reaffirming the shared commitment to peace, interfaith harmony, and social cohesion.
This visit marks another milestone in CCMUP’s mission to strengthen interfaith dialogue and promote national and global peace-building efforts, reinforcing Egypt’s position as a leader in religious coexistence and mutual understanding.
CCMUP