Global work of Islamic study centre imperative - King

The King has said the commitment of a major centre for Islamic study to "international co-operation" is more "imperative than ever in today's world".

His Majesty officially opened the King Charles III Wing at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies, of which he is a patron, during a ceremony at the institution on Thursday.

The centre's current home was first opened by the then Prince of Wales in the early 1990s, and was granted a Royal Charter by the late Queen Elizabeth II in 2012.

During a short speech, the King said he had seen the centre "grow from a modest hut" into an "internationally renowned institution".

He said the centre, which was founded in 1985 and is celebrating its 40th year, had become a "beacon of Islamic scholarship".

"The centre's ongoing commitment to objective scholarship and international cooperation, underpinned by principles of dialogue, deep understanding and mutual respect, is more imperative than ever in today's world."

"I need hardly say I am extremely heartened that the centre continues to play such a significant role in that globally critical endeavour," he said.

The King also praised the institution's "unfailing work to broaden our understanding of the Islamic world in the United Kingdom".

Dr Farhan Nizami, the centre's director, said it provided the "ability to bring scholars from around the world in a safe space where they can exchange ideas", whilst also encouraging students to study in the city.

"I think the very presence of the centre is a statement of inter-faith," he added.

The centre is affiliated with, and has a deep-rooted connection, to the University of Oxford.

Dignitaries from the university, including its current chancellor - and former Conservative Party leader - Lord Hague, joined the King during his visit.

As well as opening the new wing, the King also launched a new education programme at the centre - which has also been named in his honour.

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