The Ruling on Eating and Mixing with Ismaili Colleagues

Question:
He says: There are people of the Ismaili sect with us at work, and we work with them in the same department. Is it permissible to eat and drink with them and mix with them, or should we keep our distance from them?

Answer:
Eating and drinking from what Allah has made lawful is fine; there is nothing wrong with eating with them if it is due to work. However, eating with them for the sake of their companionship, enjoying their company, and sitting with them is not permissible. But if it happens at work or in the workplace that permissible, good food is placed out and they come to eat with you, there is no harm in that. You eat with them while disapproving of them in your hearts, because you did not gather with them out of love for them or enjoyment of their company, but rather work is what brought you together. Yes.