Cairo: The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the highest seat of Sunni Islamic learning, extended his wishes for a swift recovery to Pope Francis, 88, who is currently undergoing treatment for double pneumonia.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Grand Imam, Ahmed Al-Tayeb, expressed his hopes for Pope Francis's health in a statement, saying, "I pray to God to grant my dear brother Pope Francis a swift recovery and to bless him with health and well-being so that he continues his journey in serving humanity." Pope Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14, after experiencing breathing difficulties over several days, leading to a diagnosis of pneumonia in both lungs.

The relationship between Al-Tayeb and Pope Francis has strengthened over recent years, notably since the Al-Azhar imam's visit to the Vatican in 2016. This visit marked the end of a period of frozen relations between Al-Azhar and the Vatican. Since then, both leaders have been vocal in their joint calls to end wars and promote peace around the world.