Algerian Radio
The Rector of the Grand Mosque of Paris, Chems-Eddine Hafiz, stated that Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Algeria, scheduled to begin on Monday, is an unprecedented event in history, marked by profound spiritual and political symbolism.
Speaking as the guest on the "L’invité du jour" program on Chaîne 3 of the Algerian Radio this Sunday, Mr. Hafiz discussed the historic papal visit, which has sparked significant and mixed reactions, particularly in France. For the Rector of the Grand Mosque of Paris, the three-day trip to Algeria by the Sovereign Pontiff, at the invitation of the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, constitutes "a message that is simultaneously symbolic, spiritual, and very political."
He noted that Leo XIV is fulfilling the wish of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who was deeply eager to visit Algeria.
"Today, we are waiting to welcome an exceptional man, despite him being Christian. One might ask, what does a great Muslim country have to do with this? It is here that we see the full dimension and spiritual depth of Algeria, which has always been a country that demonstrated religious coexistence. It is, first and foremost, about the place of religious minorities in Algeria," Mr. Hafiz explained. He further emphasized that this meeting is also highly political, as it follows the invitation of President Tebboune, who visited the Vatican last July.
Expressing his conviction that the visit will be "fantastic," the Rector highlighted another powerful symbol: Leo XIV is beginning a major African tour by starting in Algeria. From his perspective, Algeria is the "Big Brother of Africa," a nation proud of its African identity that has never turned its back on the continent and has consistently advocated for its development and prosperity.
"Many Muslim countries would have wanted to host the Pope; if he chose Algeria, it is truly because of this symbolism," he revealed.
When asked about the perception of the visit in France, Mr. Hafiz indicated that many members of the French clergy, with whom he spoke before coming to Algiers, are moved by this journey. "Bishops and priests have written to me expressing with great emotion how touched they are by the fact that Leo XIV is coming to Algeria," he said.
Conversely, he pointed out that the far-right and ultra-right, represented by certain former Ministers of the Interior, are displeased with the visit. According to the guest of Chaîne 3, these factions believe the Pope’s visit "legitimizes the international policy of President Tebboune."
