The University of Cairo decided to confer an honorary doctorate on Saudi King Salman in recognition of his unique role and outstanding contributions in "serving Arabism, Islam and Muslims, as well as his support for Egypt and its people." Jabir Nissar, president of the university, said the university council's meeting on Thursday took the decision after considering the King as a prominent global figure who has a profound and remarkable influence on the Arab and international arenas. While highlighting the King's support to the university, he specially noted that it enabled the institution to start a historic project to develop its hospitals. Egypt's Grand Mufti Dr. Shawqi Allam hailed the historic visit of King Salman to Egypt. In a press statement, Allam stressed that the visit aims to achieve more coordination and cooperation between the two countries in addressing the challenges facing the Arab region. He also lauded the strong Saudi-Egyptian relations in all fields. Secretary General of the Arab League Dr. Nabil Elaraby stressed the importance of the Saudi King's visit while taking into account of the high status of Saudi Arabia and its vital role in the world. In a statement to Saudi Press Agency, he said: "This visit has a special significance as the bilateral summit between King Salman and Egyptian President El-Sisi will figure the most pressing issues related to the situations in the Arab world, as well as the strong relations between the Kingdom and Egypt.