Prince Rahim Aga Khan V Reaffirms Commitment to Human Development Cooperation with Pakistan
By Sabeeh Zanair :
Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V on Thursday expressed his desire to continue cooperation with Pakistan in various human development initiatives during a breakfast meeting hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Prince Rahim is currently undertaking his first official visit to Pakistan since being named the 50th spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last year following the death of his father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.
According to the PMO statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz warmly welcomed Prince Rahim and appreciated his commitment to promoting peace, stability and constructive engagement with governments and international partners. The premier also reaffirmed Pakistan’s shared commitment to these principles.
During the meeting, the prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s longstanding partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network and praised the organisation’s contributions in rural development, healthcare, education, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, digital skills training and youth entrepreneurship.
He particularly acknowledged AKDN’s work in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, especially in remote and vulnerable communities where the network has maintained a strong institutional presence.
The PMO said the prime minister encouraged AKDN to further expand its cooperation with Pakistan, especially in northern areas vulnerable to climate change and glacial risks. He also welcomed stronger engagement with Aga Khan University, noting its major role in healthcare and higher education.
Recognising Prince Rahim’s advocacy on environmental issues, Prime Minister Shehbaz described AKDN as a trusted partner in Pakistan’s climate resilience efforts, particularly in mountainous regions facing environmental challenges.
The prime minister also thanked Prince Rahim for making the Islamabad Serena Hotel available free of cost for the Islamabad Talks initiative.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended condolences on the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and paid tribute to his decades-long humanitarian services and close association with Pakistan spanning nearly 70 years.
The PMO added that the prime minister presented a commemorative stamp issued by Pakistan Post in honour of the late Aga Khan’s contributions to the country.
Prince Rahim thanked the prime minister for the warm welcome and reiterated his commitment to continuing cooperation with Pakistan in various human development sectors aimed at improving community welfare and sustainable development.
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