American delegation finds Copts and Muslims live in peace
Egypt-USA, Politics, 3/31/2001

Last week, a delegation of the Religious Freedom Commission visited Egypt to investigate the claims of persecuting the Egyptian Copts.

The delegation met Pope Shenouda III, Pope of the Egyptian Copts, who asserted to them that these claims are just nonsense. He also stressed that they are totally misinformed as all Egyptians, whether Copts or Muslims, live in peace.

The commission also met Sheikh Mohamed Sayed Tantawi, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, who assured them that religious freedom is maintained in Egypt, as it is a main principle of Islam. He also stated that all Egyptians, whether Copts or Muslims, are ruled by one law which is the Egyptian law.

After that, the commission met Anba Marcos, Bishop of the district of Shubra Al-kheima on the outskirts of Cairo, who emphasized that the Copts are living in total freedom in President Mubarak's reign; they perform their rites and build their churches with absolute liberty.

Asked if he wanted to send a message to President Bush, Anba Marcos answered that he wanted him to thank President Mubarak when they meet in Washington next week for his due care of all Egyptians in general and the Copts in particular.

Asked about his relations with public officials, Anba Marcos described these relations as ideal and that President Mubarak is attentive to any complaints. He cited an example when a Copt's house was accidentally demolished by the officials of the governorate, the President ordered its rebuilding on the state's expense.

The commission also met Safawat El-Baiady, head of the Anglican Church in Egypt, who asserted that President Mubarak permits the building of any number of churches, as there are not any obstacles in this regard. He added that restorations are also permitted, to save the souls of worshippers, especially in historic churches.

Asked about any hindrances imposed by government officials on dealing with Christians, He answered that all doors are open and that President Mubarak personally follows any complaint voiced by the Christians.

As for the freedom of worship, he announced that Christians perform their rites freely and that they have publishing houses affiliated to the churches where books, cassettes, videotapes etc are issued by these churches.

Previous Stories:
  Mubarak's US visit comes at significant time   (3/29/2001)
  36 Afro-American Congressmen to visit Egypt   (3/29/2001)
  US committee praises Egypt for cooperation on religious freedom   (3/29/2001)
  Pope Shenouda thanks President for agreeing to construction of new church in Mokattam   (3/26/2001)
  Pope Shenouda III okays first Coptic Orthodox mission to Spain   (3/10/2001)
  Buraq Wall an Islamic endowment   (2/22/2001)

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