PM Shehbaz, Prince Rahim Aga Khan V discuss expanding development cooperation

NEW YORK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday met Shia Ismailis spiritual leader Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, with the two sides discussing Pakistan- Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) cooperation and avenues for further collaboration.

The prime minister warmly welcomed Prince Rahim and recalled his meeting with him during the latter’s visit to Pakistan earlier this year, according a press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.

Shehbaz appreciated Prince Rahim’s commitment to maintaining Pakistan’s longstanding friendly and positive ties with the AKDN, and reaffirmed his resolve to continue working closely with him to advance shared objectives of peace, stability and development.

The prime minister also appreciated the longstanding contributions of the Ismaili community to Pakistan’s socio-economic development and highlighted its tradition of service and civic engagement.

He also lauded the contributions of AKDN institutions in promoting financial inclusion, tourism, preservation of cultural heritage and economic empowerment through local community engagement.

Shehbaz stressed the importance of making full use of opportunities for further cooperation in these areas to promote sustainable and inclusive development in Pakistan.

Prince Rahim thanked the prime minister for his warm sentiments and praised his efforts for regional peace and stability at a time when the wider region is facing conflict.

He reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and AKDN and expressed his desire to continue and expand cooperation in human development, particularly in health, education, climate resilience and sustainable socio-economic development.

The prime minister invited Prince Rahim to visit Pakistan regularly to further strengthen and deepen the longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two sides.