ISLAMABAD : Prince Rahim Aga Khan, the 50th spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, arrived in Pakistan on Sunday for a six-day visit – his first since assuming the Imamate.
Prince Shah Rahim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan V was received at Nur Khan Air Base by President Asif Ali Zardari. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Minister for Information Atta Tarar, and other senior officials were also present to welcome the distinguished guest. Children presented flowers to the Ismaili leader upon his arrival.
Upon reaching the Presidential Palace, a well-dressed contingent of Pakistan’s three armed forces presented a guard of honor to Prince Rahim Aga Khan, who saluted the troops. The spiritual leader later met with President Zardari, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
During their meeting, President Zardari appreciated the long-standing services of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) in Pakistan, particularly in the fields of health, education, and environmental protection. Both sides reiterated their commitment to further strengthening cooperation for the welfare and development of vulnerable groups.
In the evening, President Zardari hosted a dinner at the Presidential Palace in honor of Prince Rahim Aga Khan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir (Chief of Army Staff), Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and other important personalities attended the event.
According to officials, Prince Rahim Aga Khan will spend most of his time during this visit in the northern regions. From May 21 to 25, meetings and engagements are scheduled in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, areas with significant Ismaili populations.
This marks a historic first official visit for Prince Rahim Aga Khan since he succeeded his father, the late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, as the spiritual leader of Shia Ismaili Muslims worldwide.
