Algerian Radio
The President of the High Islamic Council, Mr. Mabrouk Zaid El-Kheir, emphasized that the visit of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV to Algeria is of utmost importance, describing it as “highly significant,” especially as it comes in response to an official invitation from the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune. He expressed his hope that this visit would contribute to fostering a culture of peace and love, serving as a positive message to the entire world toward a more stable and harmonious future.
During his appearance this Monday on the "L’invité du jour" on Algerian Radio’s Channel 1, Zaid El-Kheir explained that the high-level meeting between Algeria and the Vatican pursues noble goals worthy of this distinguished visit. He highlighted the religious and diplomatic dimensions of the visit, noting the significant influence of His Holiness the Pope as a major symbol for Christians worldwide. He further emphasized the Pope's prestigious standing, earned through his efforts in promoting peace, advocating for harmony, and his initiatives regarding various complex international issues.
He further stated: “Algeria is a land of peace, tolerance, and respect for all religions. Therefore, I anticipate that this visit will be a significant milestone, given its ancient history and civilizational value. It will undoubtedly highlight this standing and strengthen the rapprochement between both parties”. He also pointed to its “prominent diplomatic dimension, which is poised to achieve harmony between two states of great religious and historical weight, establishing Algeria as a beacon of radiance for global peace”.
A visit in a sensitive international context to renew relations
Speaking on the timing of the visit, Zaid El-Kheir considered it to be taking place in a precise international context marked by increasing unrest. He emphasized that Algeria and the Vatican are capable of contributing to de-escalating the situation and opening avenues for dialogue between religions, cultures, and cultures, thereby enhancing global security and stability.
He further explained that among the goals of the visit is the strengthening of bilateral relations, whose roots date back to the 1970s, and renewing them in a way that enshrines the values of mutual respect and affection. He emphasized the hope that this visit would result in outcomes that unify visions and send a message to the world that Algeria is a land of security and stability.
The President of the High Islamic Council emphasized that Algeria occupies a significant strategic position, serving as a gateway to Africa and being in close proximity to Europe. This grants it a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and communication among peoples.
Religion is a common denominator for rapprochement and coexistence between cultures
In a related context, the same speaker emphasized that this visit represents an opportunity to highlight the true role of religion as a common factor calling for coexistence and tolerance. He recalled that divine messages brought sublime values to foster harmony among humanity, noting that history bears witness to successful models of coexistence between Muslims and others in various regions, as was the case in ancient Egypt, Andalusia, and parts of Asia.
He also addressed the importance of contemporary religious discourse, which must be rational and derived from original texts, contributing to the achievement of harmony as well as spiritual and human stability.
Zaid El-Kheir pointed to the shared historical heritage, invoking the figure of Saint Augustine, one of the most prominent symbols of Christian thought. He emphasized that this visit also carries a symbolic dimension to revive this spiritual legacy spanning centuries, noting that Algeria has been and will remain a center for interfaith dialogue.
He concluded by saying: “Throughout its history, Algeria has remained a land of tolerance and coexistence, and has been keen on enshrining these values in its institutions, laws, and practices”.
