Today (Monday), at the Papal Residence in Cairo, H.H. Pope Tawadros II received His Excellency Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, accompanied by his esteemed wife, Mrs. Jane Yumiko Ittogi, and the official delegation.
In his welcoming address, His Holiness expressed his joy at the President’s visit to the Coptic Orthodox Church, which is one of the oldest churches in the world and the first church to be established on the African continent in the first century AD.
Speaking about Egypt, Pope Tawadros said:
“Egypt is a country with a long history and a deep-rooted civilization. It encompasses within it many civilizations: Pharaonic, Coptic, Islamic, Arab, African, Mediterranean, and Greco-Roman. The ancient name of Egypt was ‘Kimi’, meaning ‘the black land.’ From this name, the word ‘chemistry’ was derived, for it was in Egypt that this science originated before spreading to the world.”
Regarding Singapore, His Holiness remarked:
“Singapore is a highly developed nation. I hold fond memories of my time there, when I spent a full month years ago studying Christian education and Christian leadership. I also vividly remember Sentosa Island.”
Pope Tawadros further noted that Christians and Muslims in Egypt live together in complete harmony, highlighting the strong relationship that unites the Church with the President, the government, Parliament, Al-Azhar, and all other Christian churches. He said:
“We base our relationships on love toward all. Love has the power to create peace, and we are constantly working for social peace. We believe that love never fails. The world today is hungry for love. Since people have become increasingly reliant on modern devices, emotions within families have withered. Therefore, spreading love is a great responsibility and an indispensable necessity; indeed, love is what can save the world.”
For his part, the President of Singapore expressed his delight at meeting His Holiness and visiting the Coptic Orthodox Church. He commended the strong bonds between Pope Tawadros and His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, noting that their harmony has a positive impact not only within Egypt but also beyond its borders.
The President further mentioned that the Christian families in Singapore number perhaps no more than fifteen, but despite their small number, they are among the minorities that have a significant influence on Singaporean society.
President Shanmugaratnam praised the words of His Holiness about love, describing them as inspiring—simple in expression yet profound and full of wisdom.
Following the meeting, Pope Tawadros accompanied the President on a visit to St. Mark’s Cathedral in St Rewis complex, where the distinguished guest listened to an explanation of its history and main landmarks.
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