The signed Letter focuses on strengthening the cooperation between the two institutions in education and culture activities organized by UNESCO in Egypt and the Arab region. The cooperation extends to building capacities of Al-Azhar institutions and supporting the university in developing a curriculum on the culture of tolerance and dialogue with others, as well as developing the capacities of Al-Azhar librarians and teachers and academic staff and students on preservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, as well as, the exchange of educational curricula and publications.

Prof. Abdeldayem Nosseir , Grand Imam advisor on Education and Cultural Affairs said in his speech "The signing of this memorandum of intent today between Al-Azhar institution and UNESCO comes within the framework of the implementation strategy of the Azhar institution with regard to cooperation with local and international institutions concerned with science, culture and heritage in implementing educational and cultural programs to preserve the Arabic language and Islamic heritage in Egypt and the Arab region".

“The terms of this memorandum will be fleshed out by professionals within the institution of Al-Azhar taking into account the needs of Al-Azhar in respect of the logistical and technical support in language, science and culture programmes”.

In his speech, Dr. Ghaith Fariz Director of UNESCO Regional Bureau for Science in Cairo said, "The signing of a letter of intent today between Al-Azhar institution and UNESCO is a reflection of the common principles between the two institutions with regard to the preservation of heritage and building Culture and communication with the other dialogue, as UNESCO is working to support science programmes and a culture of enlightenment and knowledge in the Arab region in partnership with the many agencies and educational institutions".

Dr Hamad bin Saif Al Hammami, Director of UNESCO Regional Bureau for Education in Beirut added that "The Al-Azhar institution is one of the most important educational institutions in Egypt and the Islamic world and we hope that this Letter becomes the beginning of further expansions in the Arab world and the region”.

The signed Letter follows the visit of Ms. Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO in May, where she was received by the Grand Imam Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb. They both stressed on the importance of knowledge and education for youth in promoting mutual understanding and fighting against extremism. Bokova also delivered a speech at Al-Azhar University Convention Center in the presence of the university president and a number of public figures, during which she expressed great appreciation for the important role played by Al-Azhar in promoting a culture of openness, positive communication, respect for others and protection of heritage.