VATICAN - Benedict XVI recalls Muhammad Sayyed Tantawi as a “partner in the dialogue between Muslims and Catholics”

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – The Grand Imam and Sheikh of Al-Azhar, Dr. Muhammad Sayyed Tantawi “for long years was a valued partner in the dialogue between Muslims and Catholics.” This was how the Holy Father Benedict XVI recalled the Grand Imam and Sheikh of Al-Azhar, who passed away at the age of 81, in his message sent to Sheikh Muhammad Abd al-Aziz Wasil, signed by Cardinal Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone. The Holy Father expressed his condolences to the community of Al-Azhar and the Tantawi Family, recalling the impulse which the late Sheikh gave to the meetings between the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and the Permanent Committee of Al-Azhar for Dialogue. (SL) (Agenzia Fides 12/03/2010)