Al-Azhar congratulated former foreign minister Ahmed Abul-Gheit on his appointment as the new Arab League (AL) secretary-general.

In a statement on Friday, Al-Azhar said that the appointment of Abul-Gheit reflects Egypt's major role in the Arab and Islamic world. 

Al-Azhar voiced hope that Abul-Gheit will activate the role of the AL and develop its performance.

Al-Azhar extended thanks for outgoing AL chief Nabil el Araby for his efforts during his tenure in the pan-Arab body.

Abul Gheit will assume his responsibilities as secretary-general in an official manner starting July 2016.

Abul Gheit served as Egypt's foreign minister between 2004-2011.

He was the permanent representative of Egypt at the UN headquarters in New York 1999-2004.

Source: MENA