During an official visit to Cairo, Egypt, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, held high-level meetings with two of the most influential figures in the Islamic world to foster closer cooperation in areas of religion, education, and cultural exchange.
Dr. Khaleel was received by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed El-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, a globally respected institution known for its pivotal role in promoting Islamic scholarship, tolerance, and interfaith understanding. The meeting, held at the prestigious Al-Azhar headquarters, served as a platform for both leaders to reaffirm their commitment to working together in advancing messages of peace, moderation, and Islamic unity. Discussions also explored ways to strengthen academic partnerships, expand opportunities for Maldivian students at Al-Azhar University, and support mutual capacity-building initiatives in religious education.
Al-Azhar University, with a legacy dating back over 1,000 years, is considered one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed centers of Islamic learning. Hundreds of Maldivian scholars have graduated from the institution, many of whom now serve in key religious and educational roles across the Maldives. The meeting reinforced Al-Azhar’s continued support for the Maldives in training future scholars and Islamic leaders.
These engagement reflect the Maldives’ commitment to cultivating meaningful ties with influential Islamic institutions and scholars, particularly in the Arab world. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to prioritize initiatives that uplift religious education, build institutional capacity, and contribute to a global message of peace and moderation values deeply ingrained in Maldivian society as a 100% Muslim nation.
The Maldivian Foreign Minister’s diplomatic outreach in Cairo underscores the Maldives’ strategic vision of deepening bilateral ties, particularly in areas that resonate with the country’s cultural and religious identity. The strengthening of relations with Al-Azhar Al-Sharif is seen as a vital step in promoting long-term collaboration that will benefit both nations and their peoples.
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