Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif hosted a special breakfast reception in honor of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V on the occasion of his first official visit to Pakistan as the 50th Spiritual Leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
Welcoming His Highness warmly, the Prime Minister praised his commitment to promoting peace, stability, and constructive engagement with governments and international partners. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s shared commitment to these objectives and described Pakistan as the “second home” of the Aga Khan family.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the late Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and acknowledged his invaluable services to Pakistan. The Prime Minister also presented a commemorative postage stamp issued by Pakistan Post in memory of the late spiritual leader and in recognition of his longstanding contributions to the country.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the enduring partnership between Pakistan and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), highlighting the organization’s remarkable work in rural development, healthcare, education, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, digital skills training, and youth entrepreneurship, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.
He encouraged the further expansion of cooperation between Pakistan and AKDN, including stronger engagement with Aga Khan University. Stressing the urgency of climate action, the Prime Minister described AKDN as a vital partner in strengthening resilience in Pakistan’s climatically vulnerable northern regions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also thanked Prince Rahim Aga Khan V for visiting Pakistan and expressed appreciation for the provision of the Serena Hotel on a complimentary basis for the Islamabad Talks. In response, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V conveyed heartfelt gratitude for the warm welcome extended to him by the people and state of Pakistan.
Meanwhile, the arrival of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V has sparked celebrations among Ismaili communities across Pakistan. In Sindh, community centers known as Jamat Khanas were illuminated with colorful lights and decorated with flags to express love and reverence for their spiritual leader.
Cultural programs, musical evenings, and formal ceremonies were organized in various cities and towns across the province to commemorate the historic visit. Volunteers have been actively facilitating community participation throughout the celebrations.
Anwar Ali, a senior community leader from Sujawal, said that the community hopes the spiritual leader will also visit Sindh and Punjab in the near future after meeting followers in the northern areas of Pakistan.
Another community member remarked that celebrations would continue throughout the Imam’s stay in the country, reflecting the deep emotional connection between the community and its spiritual leadership.
Speaking about the teachings of the Imam, Nabeel, a young member of the community, said that their spiritual leader consistently emphasizes Islamic ethics, unity, loyalty to Pakistan, and service to humanity.
“Our Imam teaches us to remain loyal to our country, Pakistan, work for its progress and prosperity, and always help those in need,” he said.
Prince Rahim Aga Khan V shares a generations-old bond with Pakistan. His father, grandfather, and great-grandfather each played significant roles in supporting the country’s development and progress, strengthening a historic relationship that continues to inspire millions today.