Pope Francis and Imam of Al-Azhar meet for the fourth time

It is one more embrace between two old acquaintances, Pope Francis and the Great Imam of Al-Azhar, rector of the University of Al-Azhar, Ahmed Al-Tayeb. It is one of the main universities for the Sunni Muslim world. 

Both had a brief meeting at Casa Santa Marta.

“I welcome you and I am happy.”

This is the fourth time they have met since 2016 when Imam resumed relations with the Vatican, broken since 2011.

Imam of Al-Azhar and the pope share common interests such as inter-religious dialogue and the promotion of peace.

After the brief exchange of gifts, Pope Francis bid farewell to Imam amid smiles and laughter.

“God bless you.”