Pakistan’s PM Sharif Welcomes Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, Reaffirms Longstanding Partnership
ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif welcomed His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V during his first official visit to Pakistan, reaffirming the country’s deep-rooted partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and expressing shared commitments to peace, stability, and collaborative development.
The meeting, held over breakfast, marked a significant moment in bilateral relations, with Sharif commending the AKDN’s extensive contributions across sectors including rural development, healthcare, education, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, digital skills training, and youth entrepreneurship. The Prime Minister particularly highlighted the network’s transformative work in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, emphasizing its impact on remote and vulnerable communities.
Strengthening Strategic Collaborations
Sharif encouraged the AKDN to further deepen its engagement with Pakistan, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, where its institutional presence and community outreach are highly valued. He also welcomed enhanced cooperation with the Aga Khan University, recognizing its pivotal role in advancing healthcare and higher education in the country.
Recognizing Prince Rahim Aga Khan V’s advocacy for environmental stewardship, Sharif underscored the AKDN’s position as a trusted partner in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience, particularly in glacially vulnerable northern regions.
A Legacy of Humanitarian Partnership
During the meeting, Sharif extended heartfelt condolences to Prince Rahim Aga Khan V on the passing of his late father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, and paid tribute to the late leader’s enduring humanitarian legacy and his nearly seven-decade association with Pakistan. As a mark of respect, the Prime Minister presented a commemorative stamp issued by Pakistan Post to honor Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s services to the country.
Sharif also expressed gratitude for Prince Rahim Aga Khan V’s generosity in making the Serena Hotel available at no cost for the Islamabad Talks, further demonstrating the Ismaili community’s commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation in Pakistan.
Future Prospects
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V reciprocated the warm welcome, expressing his desire to continue collaboration with Pakistan in various human development initiatives. Sharif, in turn, assured the Prince that Pakistan would always remain his “second home” and hoped that his regular visits would further solidify the longstanding bonds between Pakistan and the Ismaili community.
Analysts suggest that this visit could serve as a catalyst for expanded AKDN initiatives in Pakistan, particularly in areas requiring urgent humanitarian and developmental support. The renewed focus on climate resilience and institutional partnerships may also align with broader regional efforts to address environmental challenges and strengthen social infrastructure.
