The Grand Imām of the Azhar met over the weekend with former Lebanese President Amīn al-Jamayal, who submitted an offer to mediate between the Azhar and the Vatican for a resumption of dialogue, according to Rose al-Yūsuf.

Last week, the Azhar froze its bi-annual interfaith dialogue sessions with the Vatican in response to Pope Benedict’s repeated criticisms of Islamic countries for not providing better protection for Christians.

Dr. Ahmad al-Tayyib said the Azhar respects Christians, adding that he will send a message of brotherliness and peace to the Vatican, expecting a positive reply.

The report did not provide details of al-Jamayal’s proposed mediation.