Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi on Monday urged the development of a unified and enlightened religious discourse to confront extremism and adapt Islamic outreach to the digital era, as Cairo hosted senior Islamic officials and scholars at an international conference.
Al-Sisi received ministers, grand muftis, heads of Islamic councils and institutions, and leading scholars attending the 36th International Conference of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, held on January 19–20, according to a statement from the presidency.
Opening the meeting, the president said the conference comes at a pivotal moment, serving as a bridge between deeply rooted Islamic values and the realities of a rapidly evolving digital future. He emphasized that Islam is a living faith that engages with life and keeps pace with modern developments.
“Building nations begins with building people,” Al-Sisi said, highlighting Egypt’s focus on human development as a central pillar of state policy, aimed at preparing an enlightened generation capable of addressing contemporary challenges and contributing to national development.
Outlining Egypt’s vision for religious discourse, the president stressed the need to prevent religion from being exploited by extremist groups that distort faith into violence, bloodshed, and destruction. He warned that such distortions not only harm societies but may also drive individuals toward atheism.
Al-Sisi called on religious scholars to take a leading role in countering extremist and terrorist ideologies, particularly across digital platforms and social media, and urged that religious messaging be upgraded to promote construction, security, and the protection of nations.
He also highlighted the importance of carefully selecting, training, and continuously evaluating preachers, ensuring they enjoy decent living standards and a broad cultural foundation. Mosques, he added, should operate as integrated religious, educational, and community institutions.
In his closing message, the president called for a comprehensive and responsible religious discourse that confronts extremism and terrorism, safeguards nations, and supports development.
During an interactive dialogue with participants, Al-Sisi and attending officials emphasized the promotion of moderation, the fight against extremism, and enhancing the standing of the Islamic world. They also underscored Egypt’s leadership role and the prominent position of Al-Azhar in the Arab and Islamic worlds.
