- Dr. El-Minshawy affirms that the heavenly religions strengthen the Egyptian identity and strengthen national cohesion

- Anba Daniel Lutfi praises the role of Assiut University in spreading knowledge and promoting the values of tolerance and brotherhood

Dr. Ahmed El-Minshawy, president of Assiut University, received today at his office, Bishop Daniel Lotfi, Coptic Catholic bishop of Assiut, accompanied by a delegation from the Coptic Catholic Archdiocese, to offer congratulations on the occasion of Eid al-Fitr.

At the beginning of the meeting, Dr. Ahmed El-Minshawy welcomed the visiting delegation, stressing the importance of the human values carried by the heavenly religions, which enhance national cohesion and consolidate pride in the Egyptian identity. He also stressed the role of the University in supporting cultural and community activities that promote the concepts of citizenship, and spread the values of tolerance and peace among young people.

The president of the University pointed out the keenness of the university administration to cooperate with religious and community institutions in various enlightenment and cultural initiatives, noting the importance of events that contribute to raising community awareness and renouncing extremism.

For his side, Bishop Daniel Lotfi expressed his appreciation to Assiut University and its leading role in spreading knowledge and serving the community, praising its efforts in supporting initiatives that promote the spirit of brotherhood and tolerance. The delegation of the archdiocese also praised the University's participation in the activation of the "human fraternity" document, which was signed by His Eminence Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed al-Tayeb, Sheikh of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis, pope of the Catholic Church, with the aim of spreading the culture of peaceful and joint coexistence.

The delegation also praised the fruitful cooperation between the University and the archdiocese in a number of projects, including The "her and with her" project, which was carried out in cooperation with the British embassy to combat gender-based violence and support women in Assiut Governorate, in addition to the University's participation in the "180 degrees" reading and talent festival, organized by the Franciscan schools of Assiut to enhance students ' skills in various fields.

At the end of the visit, the delegation expressed its aspiration for further cooperation and meaningful partnerships with the university, so as to contribute to community service and support sustainable development projects.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Alaa Abdul Hafeez, dean of the Faculty of Commerce, Dr. Wajdi Rifat, former dean of the Faculty of specific education, and Dr. Wadih Maximus, former dean of the Faculty of Education.