Arab West Report Egyptian press summaries and media research for dialogue

A. The Azhar is an ancient Islamic institution. It is a mosque, a university, an Islamic center, a culture and a history. It is also one of the most important religious references in the entire world.

 

A. I knew Dr. Ahmad al-Tayyib as a muftī and a president of Azhar University. I know his family in Luxor and whenever I go there, they welcome and host me in their home. Dr. Ahmad al-Tayyib is a very knowledgeable person who is known for his moderateness and tolerance. He is also keen to cooperate with others in order to spread the culture of justice and equality.

 

A. When I went to congratulate Dr. al-Tayyib for his position, I told him that Dr. Tantāwī desired to be open with everyone. Al-Tayyib told me that this openness will continue. For this reason, I ask him to be open in all fields and to enhance Islamic culture among other cultures and backgrounds.

A. President Mubārak’s acceptance of al-Tayyib’s resignation from the National Democratic Party (NDP) is considered a support from the political entity for the Azhar to be independent.

 

A. The Anglican Church thinks that these requirements will be accepted if they are internally legal. Otherwise, they would be totally rejected because the Anglican Church and Christians are part of this nation. Accordingly, whatever harms Muslims would equally harm Christians. [Editor: It is unclear as to the meaning of ‘requirements’ in this summary.]

 

A. There is spiritual cooperation and we hope to start an ongoing dialog with Dr. al-Tayyib in all fields of life and to have a common protocol with the Azhar.