The Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, Masrour Barzani, attended a ceremony today marking the laying of the foundation stone for the new Al-Azhar Institute in Erbil. The event coincided with the graduation of a new class of students from the Institute of Imams and Preachers, and was attended by a representative from Al-Azhar University, as well as prominent religious leaders and academics.

In his address, Prime Minister Barzani congratulated the graduates, wishing them success in their future roles as imams and preachers. He urged them to be “beacons of guidance and exemplary figures” in their communities, promoting the values of tolerance, peace, and mutual respect.

The Prime Minister highlighted the historic role of Kurdish religious scholars in the nation’s struggle for freedom, commending their efforts in preserving and enriching Kurdish language, literature, and culture. He noted that Kurdish history is “filled with scholars, thinkers, and poets who emerged from religious backgrounds and became pioneers of moderation and peaceful coexistence.”

Barzani reaffirmed his government’s deep respect and appreciation for religious scholars, describing them as vital partners in enlightening society, raising awareness, and strengthening coexistence among all components of the Kurdistan Region.

Speaking about the new institute, the Prime Minister emphasized that the establishment of the Al-Azhar Institute will reinforce the message of moderation long championed by Al-Azhar University, a leading Islamic institution. He expressed gratitude to Al-Azhar for its cooperation and support, describing the project as “a cornerstone for building bridges of understanding and learning.”

Barzani also pointed to the deep historical and cultural ties between Kurdistan and Egypt, recalling the era of Salahaddin Al-Ayyubi, when Kurdish scholars contributed significantly to Egypt’s intellectual and religious life. He noted that Cairo was home to the first Kurdish newspaper, Kurdistan, published 127 years ago, and that Al-Azhar itself hosted a “Kurdish Portico” (Riwaq al-Akrad), symbolizing the strong bonds between the two peoples.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Barzani extended his gratitude to religious scholars for their dedication and steadfastness in supporting their people and the Peshmerga forces. He called on them, especially the younger generation, to uphold the principles of moderation, reject extremism and hate speech, and promote the true image of Islam as a religion of peace and compassion.

“Kurdistan will always remain a haven of coexistence and fraternity among all faiths and communities,” Barzani affirmed, pledging to continue working toward “a safer and more prosperous future for all.”