His Eminence Sheikh Ali Gomaa Mohamed Abdel Wahab, Mufti of the Arab Republic of Egypt, will visit Thailand as guest of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand between 17-20 March 2009. During the visit, Sheikh Ali Gomaa will call on H.E. the Prime Minister of Thailand, H.E. the Foreign Minister of Thailand, Professor Prasobsook Boondech, President of the Senate, Professor Dr. Phra Dharmakosajarn (Prayoon Dhammacitto), Rector of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University and Cardinal Michael Michai Kitbunchu, Archbishop of Bangkok, as well as prominent figures from the Thai Muslim community.
The Mufti is to visit the Province of Pattani, where he will deliver a keynote address themed “Islamic Law in Egypt” at a seminar to be organized by the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC). In addition, he is scheduled to meet and engage community and religious leaders as well as members of the Thai Muslim community in discussion on Islamic thoughts and correct understanding of Islam.
Sheikh Ali Gomaa is an expert on Islamic law and one of the most respected religious scholars in the Muslim world. Since taking up office in 2003, he has been issuing a number of important Fatwas (religious edicts) and statements, with a clear stance against extremist interpretations of Islam and the misuse of religion to justify acts of violence.
The visit is part of Thailand’s efforts to enhance interaction with the Muslim world and to advance inter-faith dialogue and cooperation.
For further information, please contact the Press Division, Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tel.02-6435170, Fax.02-6435169, E-mail: div0704@mfa.go.th