The seventh seminar by the Muslim Council of Elders at the Cairo International Book Fair took place at the Council’s stand at the Egypt International Exhibition Center. The seminar was titled ‘Towards an inter-Islamic dialogue’ and presented by the Vice-president of Al-Azhar University Dr. Mohamed Abdul Malek. The seminar explored the calls by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders for an inter-Islamic dialogue.

During the seminar, Dr. Abdul Malek remarked that through the Document on Human Fraternity, which aspires to foster coexistence and tolerance among people of different races, colours, religions, and sects, the Grand Imam worked to connect people both internally and externally. Externally, this was done by reaching out to people of different backgrounds while internally, the Grand Imam urged a dialogue between Sunnis and Shiites to bring all Muslims together. Abdul Malek also pointed out that this occurred at a pivotal moment when Muslims needed to band together in the face of mounting difficulties.

Abdul Malek added, “Since all Muslims believe in the same God and Messenger (PBUH), the Islamic nation has many things in common that should bring it together rather than divide it. The Qur'an, which is acknowledged as the message of God Almighty, is regarded as the sacred book by all Muslims of varying backgrounds.” 

The Vice-president of Al-Azhar University also emphasized the significance of removing various barriers that impede inter-Islamic dialogue, one of which being the insulting of prominent historical Islamic figures.

The Council’s participation at the Cairo International Book Fair comes as part of His Eminence the Grand Imam’s vision of promoting dialogue and spreading tolerance and peace globally as well as building bridges of cooperation with people of all backgrounds. The Council’s participation at the Cairo International Book Fair is located in Hall 4 next to the Al-Azhar stand at the Egypt International Exhibition Center.