Wednesday, 27 May 2026
Egypt’s President urges religious leaders to counter extremism
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has called upon religious scholars and leaders to play a central role in combating extremist and terrorist ideologies, especially in today’s dynamic digital landscape.
Speaking at the opening of the 36th International Conference of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, President Sisi stressed the necessity for confronting radicalization through effective digital media engagement and elevating religious discourse to support societal development, security, and the well-being of nations.
The conference, held in Cairo on January 19-20, gathers ministers, grand muftis, heads of Islamic councils and organizations, and distinguished scholars from across the globe. Participants aim to unify strategies against extremist thought, highlight the critical role of religious institutions in fostering stability, and explore innovative approaches to contemporary religious outreach.
President Sisi, accompanied by Egypt’s Minister of Religious Endowments Dr. Osama Al-Azhari and Dr. Ahmed Nabawy Makhlouf, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council, welcomed the assembled leaders and wished the conference every success in achieving its goals. He emphasized the importance of evolving religious messaging to reflect modern realities while remaining anchored in the timeless values of Islam—a faith he described as deeply connected with both life’s needs and technological advancements.
“Nation-building begins with investing in people," President Sisi noted, highlighting that Egypt’s strategy places human development at its core. By fostering a generation that is enlightened and resilient, he said, societies will be better equipped to confront current and future challenges, contributing meaningfully to continuous growth and progress.
The President also underlined Egypt’s commitment to nurturing, training, and supporting its religious scholars and preachers. He called for greater care and respect for religious leaders, alongside continuous improvement of mosques as centers for spirituality, education, and community service.
In his interactive dialogue with conference participants, President Sisi reiterated Egypt’s vision of a balanced, inclusive religious rhetoric—one that preserves national identity, counters attempts to misuse religion for violence or division, and protects the integrity of faith from extremism and misinterpretation.
He also praised Al-Azhar University and Egypt’s enduring role as a beacon of moderate Islamic thought worldwide. The President encouraged ongoing collaboration to strengthen the standing of the Islamic world, bolster the genuine understanding of Islam, and instill values of peace, tolerance, and constructive citizenship.
President Sisi’s remarks reinforce Egypt’s enduring dedication to both safeguarding religious values and promoting harmonic coexistence in an interconnected, rapidly changing world.