25 June 2023, Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in fruitful discussions on strengthening Egypt-India relations, promoting social harmony, and countering extremism and radicalization during his first state visit to Egypt. The Prime Minister met with the Grand Mufti of Egypt, Dr. Shawky Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam, and conveyed India’s plan to establish a Centre of Excellence in IT at the Dar-al-Ifta, an Egyptian advisory body for Islamic legal research under the Ministry of Social Justice of Egypt.
The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and the Grand Mufti highlighted the Prime Minister’s commitment to inclusivity and pluralism, which received appreciation from the Grand Mufti. The Grand Mufti fondly recalled his recent visit to India, emphasizing the strong cultural and people-to-people relations between the two countries.
The discussions revolved around fostering social and religious harmony and addressing issues related to extremism and radicalization. Both leaders emphasized the importance of cooperation and bridge-building in a challenging world. Prime Minister Modi expressed his honor in meeting the Grand Mufti, praising his wisdom and leadership for Egypt.
The Grand Mufti acknowledged the significant development in India under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and commended his wise policies that promote coexistence among different factions in the country. He expressed the desire to further enhance and deepen the cooperation between Egypt and India, particularly at the religious level.
The Grand Mufti’s recent visit to India, organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, demonstrated the shared vision of Egyptian and Indian leaders for cooperation and understanding. Practical steps were emphasized to transform these good intentions into a sustained relationship based on mutual trust and respect.
Dr. Shawky Ibrahim Abdel-Karim Allam, elected as the first Grand Mufti of Egypt in 2013, also holds the position of Chairman of the Supreme Council of the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide. This umbrella organization coordinates among more than 100 fatwa authorities globally, further emphasizing the Grand Mufti’s influence in the Muslim world.
Article by PRITESH PATEL