Aga Khan pledges commitment to KP development

PESHAWAR:

Prince Rahim Aga Khan on Monday showed keen interest in exploring investment opportunities in various sectors in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and reaffirmed his commitment to continue collaboration for the sustainable development of the province.

The 50th Imam of Shia Ismaili Muslims, who concluded his three-day visit to Gilgit-Baltistan today, expressed these views during a meeting with KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, according to a statement issued by the CM Secretariat.

CM Afridi visited Lower Chitral on Sunday where he joined Governor Kundi and other political and government dignitaries to welcome the Aga Khan on his arrival in the district.

In a meeting following their arrival, the two sides discussed KP’s development priorities, investment opportunities and ongoing initiatives in key sectors including health, education, tourism and socio-economic development.

Speaking to the media later, CM Afridi said the meeting provided an opportunity for a constructive exchange on KP’s investment potential, the provincial government’s development agenda and ongoing efforts aimed at improving public welfare and economic growth.

He acknowledged the long-standing contribution of the Aga Khan Development Network, particularly in the northern regions and in Chitral.

He said these initiatives in healthcare, education, community development and social welfare have had a transformative impact on local communities.

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Afridi further stated that the discussions also covered the proposed establishment of Aga Khan University and Aga Khan Hospital facilities in Peshawar.

The Premier reiterated that the provincial government remained fully committed to advancing world-class education and healthcare services, facilitating investment and promoting inclusive and sustainable development across the province.

He emphasized that all available resources were being mobilized to translate this vision into tangible results for the people of the province.

The reception was also attended by KP Assembly Deputy Speaker Suraiya Bibi and other senior political and administrative officials.

The Aga Khan departed Gilgit after completing a historic three-day visit to Britain.

During the visit he participated in various religious and social events held in Hunza, Gojal, Gahkuch, Ghizer, Gilgit and Chitral. A large number of people gathered in different areas to receive and see their spiritual leader.

At the end of the visit, Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini was seen off at the Gilgit heliport. The Acting Prime Minister, Governor and other senior military and civil officials of GB were also present on the occasion.

Before leaving Gilgit, the prince expressed his gratitude to the military and civil institutions, appreciating the security and other measures taken during the visit, and thanked them for the facilities provided during his stay.

Prince Rahim arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday for a week-long visit, his first to the country since he was appointed spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last year.