Prince Rahim Aga Khan V arrives in Islamabad on week-long visit

Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday for a week-long visit.

state broadcaster PTV News He said that upon his arrival at Noor Khan airbase, he was received by President Asif Ali Zardari. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari was also present on the occasion.

Children dressed in traditional costumes presented flowers to the guest, while Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and senior officials also attended.

Upon arrival, the delegation proceeded to the Presidential House, where an official reception ceremony was organized in honor of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, spiritual leader of the Ismaili community.

The visit of the 50th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims is being described as a historic and emotional moment for Pakistan, particularly the regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

The first official visit, scheduled for May 20-26, carries what is described as deep spiritual, cultural and national significance, bringing together faith, heritage, leadership and unity.

During his stay in Pakistan, he is expected to meet the country’s top leaders, including the prime minister and field marshal. These meetings reflect the long-standing and constructive relationship between the Ismaili Imamat and the State of Pakistan, rooted in shared commitments to development, pluralism, education and human progress.

Beyond Islamabad, attention is focused on the northern regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, where members of the Ismaili community are anticipating the visit. In the Ismaili tradition, this meeting with the spiritual leader is known as “deedar”, a time of spiritual connection, reflection and renewal.

In areas such as Passu, Hunza, Gilgit, Gahkuch and Taus, as well as several places in Chitral, large-scale preparations have been carried out. The valleys have been decorated with messages of welcome, while as part of the reception arrangements, portals adorned with expressions of gratitude and unity have been erected.

As a direct descendant of Hazrat Ali (AS), Prince Rahim Aga Khan V’s visit is seen by his supporters as having both spiritual and historical significance, particularly for communities in the northern mountainous regions of Pakistan.