CAIRO (CNS) – In an unprecedented and highly symbolic move, Egypt’s interim President Adly Mansour paid a Christmas visit to the leader of the country’s Coptic Orthodox, Egyptian Pope Tawadros II.

Previous presidents have extended Christmas greetings through presidential envoys or by phone.

Mansour’s visit to Pope Tawadros’ papal seat in St. Mark’s Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Cairo was the first of its kind since former President Gamal Abdel-Nasser attended a consecration ceremony there more than 40 years ago, local media reported.

Mansour “was keen to show Pope Tawadros II the appreciation of Egypt to all the efforts of the Coptic citizens who have been working for the welfare and interest of the country,” said the presidential spokesman, Ihab Badawi, according to the state-run website, Ahram Online.

The visit took place two days before Coptic Orthodox Christmas, which is celebrated in Egypt Jan. 7.