ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday hosted a breakfast meeting in honor of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V during his first official visit to Pakistan, reaffirming Islamabad’s longstanding partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier warmly welcomed Prince Rahim and appreciated his commitment to "fostering peace, stability, and constructive engagement with governments and international partners."
The prime minister assured him of Pakistan’s "shared commitment to these ideals," the statement said.
PM Sharif commended AKDN’s contributions in rural development, healthcare, education, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, digital skills training, and youth entrepreneurship.
According to the statement, he particularly appreciated AKDN’s "impactful work in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, especially in remote and vulnerable communities," and encouraged the network to "deepen and expand its partnership with Pakistan," particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, where its "institutional presence and community outreach are highly valued."
The PM also said AKDN remained a "natural and trusted partner" in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience, particularly in glacially vulnerable northern areas.
Sharif added that the country would "always remain his second home" and that his regular visits would further strengthen longstanding bonds between Pakistan and the Ismaili community.
The prime minister also expressed gratitude for Prince Rahim Aga Khan V’s "generosity for making the Serena Hotel available on gratis basis for Islamabad Talks."
During the meeting, Sharif extended "heartfelt condolences" on the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and paid tribute to the late Aga Khan’s "enduring humanitarian legacy" and longstanding association with Pakistan spanning nearly seven decades.
The prime minister also presented a commemorative stamp issued by Pakistan Post to honor the late Aga Khan IV for his services to Pakistan, the statement said.
