Ismaili Imam inspires followers, political leaders with deeds
Ian Austin, The Province Published: Wednesday, November 26, 2008
The Aga Khan’s golden jubilee tour of B.C. made two stops yesterday — one rubbing elbows with B.C. leaders, another mixing with his Ismaili supporters.
The spiritual leader got a red-carpet welcome yesterday at the Pan-Pacific Hotel, where he attended a luncheon and spoke to a who’s who of B.C. newsmakers.
Premier Gordon Campbell, Vancouver Mayor Sam Sullivan and incoming mayor Gregor Robertson, Surrey Mayor Dianne Watts, Vancouver Police Chief Jim Chu and environmentalist David Suzuki were among a high-powered crowd which heard the Aga Khan’s words of wisdom.
The Aga Khan, who competed as a skier in the Winter Olympics almost 50 years ago, thanked Canadians for welcoming Ismailis from Africa, Asia and the Middle East who have found a new home in Canada.
“Canada is a partner of choice for us, has been, and will continue to be,” the 71-year-old told the crowd. “This is the last leg of my visit to Canada, and I think you already know it’s the best leg.”
Campbell saluted the Aga Khan as a leader who is “not just talking about opportunities, but taking steps along the road of hope.”
Ismailimail 