The Grand Imam stated that al-Azhar values its historical relationship with Uzbekistan and seeks to strengthen it, in line with the rich history of this ancient Islamic nation, which has produced prominent Muslim scholars who have contributed to the preservation and revival of Islamic heritage throughout the centuries.
During his meeting with the Uzbek Ambassador to Cairo, Mansurbek Kilichev, His Eminence the Grand Imam highlighted al-Azhar’s reception of over four thousand Uzbek students across various stages of education, from kindergarten to postgraduate studies. He also emphasized al-Azhar’s readiness to establish an Arabic language teaching center in Uzbekistan to help its people learn the language of the Quran, in recognition of the historical contributions of Uzbek scholars to the service of true Islam. Additionally, the Grand Imam expressed al-Azhar’s willingness to host Uzbek Imams for training at the al-Azhar International Academy for Training Imams and Preachers.
The Ambassador of Uzbekistan expressed his pleasure in meeting the Grand Imam of al-Azhar and conveyed his country’s deep appreciation for the Grand Imam’s significant efforts in promoting authentic religion through the moderate Azhari approach. He also highlighted that the Grand Imam’s visits to Uzbekistan have greatly contributed to strengthening relations between the two sides, particularly in preaching and education. Furthermore, the Ambassador noted the ongoing fruitful cooperation between al-Azhar and the Uzbek Ministry of Religious Affairs, which includes joint conferences, seminars, and the involvement of al-Azhar scholars and professors specializing in various Shariah sciences and the Arabic language.
