Grand Imam to Prime Minister of Thailand: Global Efforts Must Be Mobilized to End the Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza

The Prime Minister of Thailand, Mr. Srettha Thavisin, has received His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders to discuss ways to enhance mutual cooperation. Both sides emphasized the urgent need to stop the aggression on Gaza and find a just solution to the Palestinian cause.

At the beginning of the meeting, the Thai Prime Minister expressed his country's appreciation for the Grand Imam, noting that this historic visit would contribute to fostering constructive cooperation between Thailand and Al-Azhar. He highlighted that Thai students studying at Al-Azhar play a positive role in the development of Thai society and that the meetings and events held during the Grand Imam's visit to Thailand were warmly welcomed and celebrated by all segments of Thai society.

The Thai Prime Minister praised the efforts of Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, in promoting and enhancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence. He affirmed that Thailand seeks to strengthen its cooperation with Al-Azhar to contribute to global peace.

In response, the Grand Imam expressed his appreciation for the leadership and people of Thailand, commending the Thai students studying at Al-Azhar. He confirmed Al-Azhar's readiness to increase the number of scholarships for Thai students, send more Al-Azhar emissaries to Thailand, and intensify training courses for Thai imams to equip them to address the challenges and issues relevant to their communities, in line with the nature of Thai society. He also indicated Al-Azhar's readiness to establish a center for teaching Arabic in Thailand.

The Grand Imam called for intensified international efforts to support the Palestinian cause, end the aggression on Gaza, and stop the bloodshed of innocent civilians. The Thai Prime Minister expressed his support for the Grand Imam's positions advocating for a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, which has persisted for decades. He stated, "We stand with Your Eminence and with humanity to end this crisis," emphasizing Thailand's commitment to supporting the Palestinian people in obtaining their legitimate and just rights.

At the end of the meeting, the Grand Imam presented Prime Minister of Thailand with the Al-Azhar Shield and the Medal of the Muslim Council of Elders, commemorating the tenth anniversary of the council's establishment.