Islamabad: In a significant step towards deepening bilateral relations, Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of religious education. This commitment was affirmed during a meeting between Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, and Dr. Ihab Mohamed Abdelhamid Hassan, the Egyptian Ambassador to Pakistan, held in Islamabad on July 23, 2024.

According to Press Information Department, the discussions centered around various strategies to bolster the relationship between the two nations with a special focus on religious education. The talks highlighted potential areas of mutual interest and cooperation, including the pivotal role of mosques in serving as centers for religious, spiritual, social guidance, and social services.

During the meeting, Ambassador Hassan informed Minister Hussain about the plans to establish an institution in Punjab that will affiliate with Al-Azhar University, aiming to enhance the framework of religious education in the region. He also noted that eleven Egyptian professors are currently teaching at the International Islamic University Islamabad, contributing to the educational exchange between the two countries.

Furthermore, Ambassador Hassan extended an invitation to Minister Hussain to attend an upcoming conference dedicated to exploring the role of women in building awareness, signaling a progressive step towards inclusive dialogue in religious and social contexts.

This meeting underscores the ongoing efforts by both Pakistan and Egypt to forge stronger ties through shared cultural and educational values, enhancing bilateral relations on multiple fronts.