Grand Sheikh of Al-Azhar Dr. Ahmed el-Tayyeb and Egypt's Mufti Dr. Ali Gomaa visited Pope Tawadros II of Alexandria and Patriarch of Saint Mark Diocese to extend Christmas greetings.

Pope Tawadros II and Dr. Tayyeb held in-camera talks that focused on the situation in Egypt, sources at the church said. They also discussed efforts to promote the Muslim and Christian values of mercy and love.

In statements after the meeting, Tayyeb said that Al-Azhar is working to launch its own channel to promote moderate teachings and tolerance of Islam.

There has never been such a thing as a civil or sectarian war in Egypt, which has always been and will continue to be a safe haven, the Grand Sheikh said.

National unity should start from scholars and clergymen, Tayyeb said. "We're moving ahead toward that goal," he said.