US religious freedoms report: Egypt's Muslims, Christians sons of same history, civilization

The US annual report on religious freedoms worldwide said that Muslims and Christians in Egypt are the sons of one history, identity, origin, culture, civilization and language and live together as citizens in one country.

The relationship between Muslims and Copts is one of endearment and constant dialogue between religious leadership and participate together in religious occasions and ceremonies, said the report.

It added that Al-Azhar, the Awkaf (Endowments) Ministry and the Coptic Organization for Social Services have together launched a one-year program last February to reach a unified stand on important national issues.

Sent by the US State Department to the Congress, the June 2000-June 2001 report pinpointed that President Hosni Mubarak has taken significant measures and issued instructions that led to maintain the Egyptian people's unity, religious tolerance and amity.

Mrs. Suzanne Mubarak is spearheading a cultural campaign to encourage reading and develop publications that stress religious tolerance and review the Muslim and Coptic history and civilization of Egypt, said the report.

It referred to President Mubarak's role in meeting the demands of Copts and maintaining the Coptic heritage as an important part of Egypt's history, civilization and culture.

Schools started teaching new syllabi involving Coptic and Byzantine history, according to the report.