Egypt provides comprehensive model of fighting terrorism -- official

CAIRO, June 3 (MENA) - The Islamic Research Academy has praised efforts exerted by President Abdel Fattah El Sisi, which helped Egypt attain a "unique" position in the Middle East.

Egypt has, thanks to its army, police and people, provided a comprehensive model of fighting terrorism, said Secretary General of the Academy Mohamed Ayad in statements to MENA Monday.

Ayad touched upon Al Azhar's role in maintaining societal peace among the people.

Indeed, Al Azhar remains one of Egypt's soft powers in the region, he said, pointing to efforts by Grand Imam Ahmed el Tayyeb to promote peaceful co-existence among all the peoples.

He also talked about future plans to upgrade the academy, which plays a big role in renewing the Islamic culture and correcting misconceptions.

Violence and extremism have nothing to do with Islam but reflect misconceptions and personal agendas, Ayad said, citing the phenomenon of Islamophobia.

Some right-wing groups promote such devious ideas against Islam, he told MENA, noting that the academy's role is to clarify misconceptions about Islam.