President Joko Widodo of Indonesia today received Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta to discuss promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.

At the meeting, President Widodo expressed the deep affection and respect the Indonesian people have for Dr. Al-Tayeb and his scientific and humanitarian efforts and noted that Al-Azhar serves as the primary reference for Muslims in Indonesia and appreciates the Grand Imam's efforts in promoting the values of dialogue, fraternity, and peace among all people.

The Indonesian President also praised the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting global values of fraternity and peace, expressing his delight at the opening of a regional office for the council in Indonesia. He also emphasised his confidence that this branch will serve as an excellent platform for supporting Muslims in Southeast Asia.

For his part, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar expressed his appreciation for Indonesia's significant efforts, led by President Widodo, in enhancing the values of peace and tolerance and commended Indonesia as an inspiring model of diversity, plurality, development, and coexistence.

The Grand Imam noted that the Muslim Council of Elders is currently discussing the launch of an international initiative titled "Alliance of Religions for Development and Peace," in collaboration with Indonesia, to enhance the role of religious leaders in supporting development and peace efforts. He highlighted that Indonesia represents a pioneering Islamic model that combines development and prosperity while maintaining religious values.

He added that the Muslim Council of Elders is keen on involving religions in enhancing human values and contributing to finding solutions to global issues.

He noted the launch of the "Al-Azhar Global Declaration on Citizenship" in Cairo along with the historic "Document on Human Fraternity" in Abu Dhabi in 2019, the "Call of Conscience: Abu Dhabi Joint Statement for Climate," and the "Faith Pavilion at COP28", marking the first time such an initiative was included in the history of the Conference of the Parties.

Finally, President Widodo expressed his nation's great welcome for this important initiative for Indonesia, Southeast Asia, and the world. He also affirmed Indonesia's readiness to host and fully support the initiative.