22 Feb 2025
Imam of London Central Mosque Meeting with Pope Francis
Vatican City, 10 February 2025
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Imam of London Central Mosque, Joins European Coordinating Council Delegation in Meeting with Pope Francis
Dr. Faid Mohammed Said, Secretary General of the Commission of Fatwa and Imam of London Central Mosque, participated in a high-level delegation from the European Coordinating Council AMAL, led by Shamseddine Mohamed Hafiz, Dean of the Grand Mosque of Paris, in a meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican.
The discussions focused on the situation of Muslims in Europe and strategies to foster peaceful coexistence and interfaith cooperation, with a particular emphasis on combating racism, extremism, and the impacts of Islamophobia. Both sides agreed to launch joint initiatives, including conferences and seminars between Muslims and Christians, aimed at strengthening solidarity and social cohesion within European societies.
Additionally, it was agreed to establish a joint communication committee between the European Coordinating Council and the Vaticans Christian-Muslim Dialogue Council to develop an annual action plan for promoting dialogue and cooperation.
At the conclusion of the meeting, a translated copy of the meanings of the Holy Quran was presented to Pope Francis, who received it warmly and kissed it as a gesture of respect and appreciation. This symbolic act reaffirmed his commitment to respecting sacred texts and sent a strong message against extremist acts targeting the Quran in some European countries.