Tuesday 18 March 2025
Cairo, Egypt
On Tuesday, March 18, the Centre for Christian-Muslim Understanding & Partnership (CCMUP) collaborated with the Anglican Diocese of Egypt, in organizing a Ramadan Iftar at the theater hall of the All Saints’ Anglican Cathedral in Zamalek, Cairo. The event was attended by prominent religious, diplomatic, political and societal figures, promoting a spirit of unity and mutual respect among different faith communities in Egypt.
Archbishop Dr. Sami Fawzi
Archbishop Dr. Sami Fawzi, Archbishop of the Anglican Province of Alexandria, welcomed the guests, emphasizing the significance of the gathering during the holy month of Ramadan around a shared table of love and unity. He stated, “This occasion provides an opportunity to strengthen friendships as one family, where affection remains the foundation of our relationships as citizens of the same nation. Sharing a meal is a powerful symbol of warmth and harmony.”
Archbishop-Emeritus Dr. Mouneer Anis
Archbishop-Emeritus Dr. Mouneer Hanna, CCMUP Director, echoed
these sentiments, highlighting the divine love that unites people not only on this occasion but throughout the year. He also took a moment to acknowledge the suffering of communities facing hardship, including those in Palestine, Gaza, Syria and Sudan, calling for prayers for peace and justice.
H.E. Dr. Ali Gomaa
H.E. Dr. Ali Gomaa, former Grand-Mufti of Egypt, Chairman of the Religious Committee in the House of Representatives, and a member of the center’s Board of Trustees, stressed that the gathering reflected a deep sense of unity and love. “We pray that goodness and peace prevail and that we always serve as a source of positive influence and moral example,” he said.
H.E. Dr. Abu Zeid El-Amir
H.E. Dr. Abu Zeid Al-Amir, Coordinator of the Egyptian Family House
and representative of Grand Imam Sheikh Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, expressed his gratitude to the organizers, remarking that Egypt has long been a model of national cohesion. He noted that this year’s unique coincidence of the Ramadan fasting with the Coptic Lent further underscores the nation’s heritage of coexistence and mutual respect.
Dr. Hossam Badrawi
Writer and thinker Dr. Hossam Badrawi reflected on the significance of such interfaith gatherings, stating, “This occasion reminds us of the shared values of humanity and mercy among the Egyptian people. We deeply appreciate this ongoing engagement, which reinforces a spirit of brotherhood and solidarity.”
H.E. Ambassador Gareth Bayley
H.E. The British Ambassador to Egypt, Mr. Gareth Bayley, emphasized the importance of communication and reflection during Ramadan. He stated, “This month is a time not only for gatherings but also for deep contemplation on the essence of life. Here, in this space, we feel the spirit of peace and love that binds us all together as one cohesive society.”
Dr. Sameh Fawzy
Dr. Samah Fawzi, a writer and senior official at the Library of Alexandria, noted that the
event underscored the deep understanding and shared values between Muslims and Christians in Egypt. “Daily interactions and dialogue strengthen our unity and make us more resilient as a society,” he remarked.
H.E. Ambassador Hossam Issa, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed the significance of such events in promoting a culture of coexistence and mutual respect. “This gathering sends a strong message that we are one people, living together in harmony and working towards a common good,” he stated.
The event was also attended by H.E. the Austrian Ambassador George Postinger; former Qalyubia Governor and CCMUP Board of Trustees member H.E. Mr. Adly Hussein; former Minister of Industry and CCMUP Board of Trustees member H.E. Dr. Ibrahim Fawzi; businessman Eng. Magdy Eltaher; former Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Raouf Saad; Mr. Rene Gornflo, Economic Counselor to the EU Delegation in Egypt; Mme. Mathilde Renard, Belgian Diplomat; Mme. Sushma, Chargé d’Affaires, Indian Embassy in Cairo; and Mr. Muhammed Aljunied, Diplomat from the Embassy of Singapore in Cairo.
The interfaith Iftar served as a testament to Egypt’s deep-rooted tradition of unity, showcasing the power of shared experiences in fostering a culture of peace and understanding for all members of society.
CCMUP