Dhaka, Nov 12 (V7N)- Ahmed Eltayeb, the grand imam of Al-Azhar al-Sharif, has praised the leadership of Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Prof. Muhammad Yunus, and expressed optimism for the nation’s future under his guidance. During a meeting on Tuesday at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Baku, Eltayeb also invited Yunus to deliver a speech at Al-Azhar, one of the world’s oldest and most esteemed Islamic institutions.

Highlighting Al-Azhar’s commitment to educational opportunities, Eltayeb announced that the institution would offer new fully funded scholarships specifically for Bangladeshi students. "We are hopeful for Bangladesh’s future with your wise leadership," the grand imam remarked, noting his confidence in the nation’s growth after the recent revolution.

Prof. Yunus expressed gratitude for the invitation and extended a reciprocal invitation for Eltayeb to visit Bangladesh, encouraging him to witness the country’s transformation led by a mass student uprising. During their discussion, Yunus shared updates on the reforms and efforts spearheaded by the interim government.

The grand imam commended Yunus’s lifelong dedication to social causes, particularly highlighting Grameen Bank's groundbreaking microfinance initiatives and Yunus’s work to alleviate poverty. Recalling Al-Azhar’s support in the early 1980s, Yunus acknowledged the institution’s decree affirming that Grameen Bank’s interest-based model aligned with Islamic principles.

As a token of appreciation, Yunus presented the grand imam with a copy of Art of Triumph, a celebrated book showcasing mural art and graffiti created during Bangladesh’s revolution. Eltayeb expressed admiration for the artistic talents of Bangladeshi students, including those currently studying at Al-Azhar University.

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