Egypt’s Al-Azhar, Coptic Church Call for Confronting Extremism

Dignitaries at Monday's event. (Al-Azhar press office)
Dignitaries at Monday's event. (Al-Azhar press office)
TT

Egypt’s Al-Azhar, Coptic Church Call for Confronting Extremism

Dignitaries at Monday's event. (Al-Azhar press office)
Dignitaries at Monday's event. (Al-Azhar press office)

Participants at a conference organized by Egypt’s Al-Azhar and the Coptic Church underscored on Monday the pivotal role played by the Egyptian Family House in countering terrorism and maintaining a unified national fabric.

At the event marking the 10th anniversary of the founding the Egyptian Family House, they stressed “the need to confront terrorism and extremism and raise awareness of the values of citizenship.”

The conference was attended by Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, Coptic Orthodox Church Pope Tawadros II, former president Adly Mansour and Justice Minister Omar Marwan on behalf of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, as well as several other ministers, ambassadors, diplomats, Islamic scholars and heads of Egyptian churches.

Al-Azhar and churches across Egypt established the Egyptian Family House to allow religious institutions to contribute to the state’s national, security and political efforts in protecting the nation, said al-Tayeb.

“Al-Azhar’s recognition of religious institutions inside and outside Egypt aims at bringing together humane values between divine religions,” he added.

Pope Tawadros, for his part, said that “the term ‘family house’ reflects good morals.”

The world is currently facing tough challenges caused by the pandemic, which led to rifts among people due to the social distancing measures, he remarked, stressing the importance of cooperation to counter all challenges.



Turki Alalshikh Honored as ‘Most Influential Personality of the Decade’ at MENA Effie Awards

Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)
TT

Turki Alalshikh Honored as ‘Most Influential Personality of the Decade’ at MENA Effie Awards

Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (Asharq Al-Awsat)

In a landmark global achievement, Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, was named the “Most Influential Personality of the Decade” during the MENA Effie Awards ceremony.

Theprestigious honor recognizes his transformative contributions to the Kingdom’s entertainment sector and his pivotal role in its development and international prominence.

The MENA Effie Awards, renowned for celebrating impact and creativity across the Middle East and North Africa, distinguishes individuals whose efforts have delivered exceptional and lasting contributions over the past decade.

Alalshikh’s recognition underscores his status as one of the most influential figures in global entertainment and reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing impact on the international cultural and entertainment landscape.

Under his leadership, the General Entertainment Authority has played a key role in enhancing the quality of life in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. His efforts have established a world-class entertainment ecosystem, bolstering the national economy and fostering sustainable development.

Since the launch of Riyadh Season 2024 in October, spearheaded by Alalshikh, the event has attracted unprecedented global attention. In less than a month, approximately 6 million visitors attended, showcasing the event’s extraordinary appeal to both local and international audiences.

The season features thousands of events, ranging from concerts and art exhibitions to theater performances and family-friendly activities. Riyadh Season 2024 includes five main zones—Boulevard World, Kingdom Arena, Boulevard City, The Venue, and Al-Suwaidi Park—each offering a distinctive and immersive experience.

During its opening week, the season set a record with 2 million visitors, highlighting the public’s enthusiasm for this eagerly awaited event.