The head of Al-Azhar offered scholarships for Montenegrin students

The Grand Imam of Al Azhar, Ahmed El Tayeb, has offered scholarships for five students from Montenegro to study at Cairo's Al Azhar University, one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the world, the office of Montenegrin President Jakov Milatović announced.

Milatović met with El Tayeb in Cairo, as well as with Tawadros II, the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church and Pope of Alexandria.

Milatović's office announced that during the meeting with El Tayeb, the importance of education, interfaith dialogue, and a culture of mutual respect were discussed.

"As a confirmation of his commitment to education and cooperation, His Eminence offered scholarships for five students from Montenegro to study at Al Azhar University, one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in the world, with more than a millennium of tradition," the statement said.

Milatović said that education connects people and societies, while interreligious dialogue strengthens peace.

"Montenegro remains committed to fostering harmony among different religions and traditions, as one of the fundamental values ​​of our society," said Milatović.

The statement states that, as a sign of appreciation, Milatović presented the Grand Imam of Al Azhar with a hand-woven prayer rug from Bihor, more than 40 years old, which is protected as an intangible cultural asset of Montenegro.

"In a conversation with His Holiness Tawadros II, Milatović pointed out the importance of dialogue, mutual trust and understanding at a time when peace and closeness between people are needed more than ever," the statement said.

Milatović stated that Montenegro is home to different religions.

"In this diversity, we recognize the wealth of our society and a value that we must carefully preserve," said Milatović.

As announced, Milatović, as a sign of respect and friendship, presented Pope Tavadros II with an icon of Saint Basil of Ostrog, a saint who holds a special place in the spiritual life of Montenegro.

"Meetings with the heads of the Coptic Orthodox Church and Al Azhar confirmed the shared commitment to strengthening dialogue, educational cooperation and mutual understanding as lasting foundations of peaceful, stable and interconnected societies," the statement said.