Why the World Celebrates His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV

Throughout his life, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV has emphasized the view of Islam as a thinking, spiritual faith: one that teaches compassion and tolerance; that is inherently pluralistic and that upholds the dignity of humankind. To this end, and guided by the ethical principles of Islam, His Highness the Aga Khan established the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), as a contemporary endeavor of the Ismaili Imamat to realize the social conscience of Islam through institutional action.

In 2005, His Late Highness in an interview with Jeune Afrique captured in a few words, the significance of his work, “the ethics of Islam guide all my activity,” and in another interview in 2013 with Vanity Fair, he wisely shared “the Islamic ethic is that if God has given you the capacity or good fortune to be a privileged individual in society, you have a moral responsibility to society.”

The gravitas of these 2 sentences are the basis upon which all the honours have been accorded and the world’s enthusiastic endorsement of the ethics and principles of Islam as interpreted and practiced without compromise by the 49th Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

“The ethics of Islam enjoin all believers, individually or through institutions such as the Ismaili Imamat, to assist the poor, the isolated, and the marginalised to improve their current circumstances and future prospects.

 

Through the Imamat, I have tried to respond to this responsibility by creating a group of private, non-denominational agencies the Aga Khan Development Network – to respond to the needs and potential of people living in some of the poorest parts of the world, irrespective of their gender, ethnicity, or religion.”

 

~ His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

UNESCO – World Mountain Forum,

Paris, France – June 5th, 2000

The Constellation of Honours is a portrait of service to humanity, representing the various titles, state decorations, fellowships, awards, honours, honorary degrees and tributes His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV has been endowed with over the course of his long and eventful 67 years of Imamat.

Spanning various areas of human endeavor, addressing a multitude of complex issues, these accolades are a testimony of the esteem, influence, respect and support His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV commanded the world over.

The Constellation Matrix is about the spirit of connection – Encounters & Connections and the convergence of energies, synergies and values that result in impactful improvements in the quality of human & planetary life.

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An Exalted Life – a Great & Noble Calling

Life Well Lived: A Portrait of Service to Humanity

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Retrospective & Reflection:

Mandate of the Imam

“Throughout its long history, the Ismaili Imamat has emphasised the importance of activities that reflect the social conscience of Islam, that contribute to the well being of Allah’s greatest creation – mankind, and the responsibility which Islam places on the fortunate and the strong to assist those less fortunate.

 

… This led me to establish what is now the Aga Khan Development Network (the AKDN), a group of eight agencies with individual mandates, to engage in critical dimensions of development from distinct yet complementary perspectives and the competencies they require.”

 

~ His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

delivering the Jacques de Larosiere Lecture

at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development’s Annual Meeting,

2003 Business Forum,

Uzbekistan – May 5th, 2003

 

“The ethics of Islam bridge the realms of faith on the one hand and practical life on the other – what we call Din and Dunya.

 

Accordingly, my spiritual responsibilities for interpreting the faith are accompanied by a strong engagement in issues relating to the quality of life and well being.

 

This latter commitment extends not only to the Ismaili community but also to those with whom they share their lives – locally, nationally and internationally.”

 

~ His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

Paris, France – June 2007

 

“In Islam, this [principle that the fruits of learning are to be at the service of all humanity] is a core principle of belief.

 

In that tradition, my forefathers, the Fatimid Imam-Caliphs of Egypt, who founded Al-Azhar University and the Academy of Knowledge in Cairo a thousand years ago, viewed the acquisition of knowledge as a means to understanding, so as to serve better, God’s creation.

 

For them the true purpose of scholarship, and the gift of reason was to help build society and guide human aspirations.

 

Lest it be forgotten, the society of their times was richly pluralistic when the Quranic notion of the Ahl al-Kitab – the People of the Book – and of one humanity were the driving force for tolerance and respect for difference.”

 

~ His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

delivering an acceptance address on receiving the

University of Evora Honorary Doctorate,

Evora, Portugal – February 12th, 2006

 

“The Imam-of-the-Time also has a responsibility for improving the quality of life – the quality of worldly life – for his people, and for the people among whom the Ismailis live.

 

It is to advance those responsibilities that so much of my attention over these sixty years has been committed not only to strengthening the Imamat’s capacities to fulfil its mandate, but also to the work of what we now call the AKDN – the Aga Khan Development Network.

 

The AKDN includes a variety of agencies working in the fields of economic development, education, health care, and cultural enrichment. Our fundamental objective is to do whatever we can to help to improve the quality of human life.”

 

~ His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

address to the Parliament of Portugal,

Lisbon, Portugal – July 10th, 2018

 

“Our work has always been people driven. It grows out of the age-old Islamic ethic, committed to goals with universal relevance: the elimination of poverty; access to education; and social peace in a pluralistic environment.

 

The AKDN ‘s fundamental objective is to improve the quality of human life.”

 

~ His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

address to both Houses of Parliament of Canada,

Ottawa, Canada – February 27th, 2014

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Encounters – The World Speaks:

Afghanistan

“It is a special privilege that, exactly one year after I stood under this magnificent roof – gratefully awarded by Die Quadriga, I return today to honour one of the most renowned personalities of our time.

 

It is most fitting that the board of Die Quadriga has chosen to honour His Highness Karim Aga Khan with the `United We Care’ award for this year.

 

His Highness, the spiritual leader of the global Ismaili Community, is a man of vision who is committed to the noble ideals of humanity in the face of harsh realities of the world.

 

As the 49^th Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, he continues a long-standing family tradition as a world leader. His grandfather, Sir Sultan Mohammad Shah commanded pre-eminence on the socio-political scene in India and internationally [League of Nations, etc].

 

I am unsure where to begin to describe this great citizen of the world. Aga Khan the humanist, the peace-builder, the democrat, the philanthropist or an esteemed ambassador between civilisations.

 

Indeed, His Highness has encouraged the world to embrace pluralism as a source of strength and not a weakness. It is this belief in an inclusive world that makes His Highness an inspirational leader of our time.

 

Let’s remember that we live in a world that is stratified by parochial interests and threatened by dark forces of violence. With this backdrop, we can truly appreciate the significance of the broad vision and tireless efforts of His Highness to promote understanding and foster peace.

 

This great man’s vision and commitment to humanity has won him admirers and friends across the world. And, I am particularly proud to know His Highness and to be able to call him a close friend.

 

Your Highness,

 

It is my distinct privilege and honour to present to you, on this historic day of the unification of Germany, the prestigious Die Quadriga award.

 

This award is not only a recognition of your personal achievements, but also an affirmation of the path that you have chosen to lead.

 

May many others be inspired to walk your path and make the world a more humane place for generations to come.”

 

~ Hamid Karzai,

former President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan,

presenting the “United We Care” award & Die Quadriga 2005 Prize to

His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

Berlin, Germany – October 3rd, 2005

 

“The Coordination Council of the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its profound sorrow at the demise of His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims.

 

A visionary leader, a champion of pluralism, and a steadfast supporter of Afghanistan’s development and stability, His Highness dedicated his life to humanitarianism, education, and sustainable development, leaving an enduring legacy that has transformed the lives of countless Afghans. His invaluable contributions to promoting peace and progress in Afghanistan will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect.

 

Throughout the decades, His Highness visited Afghanistan numerous times, offering support to some of the country’s most vulnerable communities. Under his leadership, the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) played a vital role in strengthening Afghanistan’s healthcare, education, cultural heritage, and economic sectors.

 

His vision and dedication empowered Afghan men and women, bolstered institutions, and preserved Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage, including the restoration of historic sites that symbolize the nation’s resilience and identity.

 

His demise is a profound loss to the global community, particularly to those who have been touched by his generosity, wisdom, and leadership.

 

The Coordination Council of the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan extends its deepest condolences to the Ismaili community worldwide, the Aga Khan Development Network, and all those who mourn his passing.

 

We remain committed to upholding the values of humanitarianism and development that His Highness so profoundly championed.

 

May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

 

~ Afghan Embassy in Australia,

The Coordination Council of the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan,

Canberra, Australia – February 5th, 2014

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Australia

“The King’s Trust Group is very saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and direct descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

 

Prince Karim Aga Khan was the Global Founding Patron of The King’s Trust Group.

 

His philanthropy and leadership have enabled The King’s Trust Group to support over 30,000 young people since 2019.

 

We are deeply thankful to His Highness and will continue to ensure that his legacy endures.

 

The King’s Trust Group offers our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide.”

 

~ The King’s Trust Australia,

Melbourne, Australia – February 5th, 2025

 

“His Highness the Aga Khan IV leaves a very significant legacy to the wider world as a spiritual leader and philanthropist, and in the racing world as a profoundly influential owner & breeder of superlative thoroughbred horses.

 

Arrowfield was privileged to establish a breeding partnership with His Highness in Australia that enjoyed considerable success, most notably with Champion 3YO Colt and now Group 1 sire The Autumn Sun (Redoute’s Choice-Azmiyna) – he represents everything that the Aga Khan Studs & Arrowfield aimed to achieve.

 

I share the gratitude of millions for the life of a truly remarkable man and extend my sympathy to His Highness’s family as they mourn his passing.”

 

~ John Messara,

Founder & Owner, Arrowfield Studs,

Board Chair, Racing New South Wales (2011–6),

Board Chair, Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (2007–8),

Sydney, Australia – February 4th, 2025

 

“A towering figure in the sport, he was one of the most influential owner-breeders in world racing.

 

In 2016, we had the privilege of speaking with His Highness the Aga Khan about his passion for thoroughbred racing and breeding.

 

Vale, His Highness the Aga Khan (1936–2025).”

 

~ Channel 7 Horse Racing,

Sydney, Australia – February 5th, 2025

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Bahrain

“The Embassy is deeply saddened by the passing of HH Aga Khan IV.

 

His legacy of compassion and service will continue to inspire generations.

 

His visit to Bahrain in 2003, where he was received by HM the King, will forever be remembered.

 

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Ismaili community during this difficult time.”

 

~ Bahrain Embassy in the UK,

London, England – February 5th, 2025

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Bangladesh

“Over the decades, I had regarded him for his dedication to champion empathy, harmony, pluralism. With great fondness and reverence, I recall my conversations with His Highness and his ideas to uplift livelihoods of communities in diverse parts of the world.

 

I shall cherish my friendship with His Highness Aga Khan IV. I had the distinct honour to work with him on the board of his foundation. I saw for myself how the initiatives of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) left indelible marks on the ground. His focus on learning and culture, in particular, truly emanated out of his vision to touch souls beyond identities or distinction.

 

In Bangladesh, we would remember His Highness for the ways he wished to stand by our people, to help us transform minds of the posterity, uphold heritage and support the vulnerable. Many in Bangladesh would hold him dearly to their hearts for he brought the AKDN to Bangladesh with an expanded Protocol in 2013. The Aga Khan Academy, in the heart of Dhaka City, remains one shining instance of his vision and determination. In a truly landmark moment for Grameen Bank, the Aga Khan Architectural Award was given for the design of its $500 home for its member/borrowers.

 

In this time of immense grief, we stand in solidarity with you [His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V], your family, and the entire lsmaili community around the world. Our thoughts and prayers remain with you and your bereaved family. May the Almighty Allah grant His Highness eternal peace and your family solace during this most difficult time.

 

May you draw on the enduring legacy of His Highness, whose spirit of service and humanity will continue to inspire generations to come, across continents.”

 

~ Professor Muhammad Yunus,

Chief Adviser of the Interim Government of Bangladesh since August 8th, 2024,

2006 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate,

Founder, Grameen Bank

(pioneer of microcredit and microfinance),

Chancellor, Glasgow Caledonian University (2018-22),

Dhaka, Bangladesh – February 6th, 2025

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Belgium

“He was much more than an exceptional owner – he changed my life!

 

Always present, in times of success as well as in difficult times, he also shared precious moments of my personal life.

 

I will forever remember the pride of having worn his legendary green jersey with red epaulettes, the one that allowed me to live my greatest dreams and reach the height of competition around the world.

 

In 2009, when my original riding contract was not renewed, he encouraged me not to give up. He reminded me that other jockeys had gone through the same ordeal and that this should become a strength, a new source of motivation.

 

With kindness, he assured me that our collaboration would continue and that there were still great things to accomplish together.

 

His Highness was much more than an employer, he was a true protector.

 

His legacy will remain imperishable.”

 

~ Christophe Soumillon,

Aga Khan Studs, Retained Jockey (2002-9 & 2014-22),

 Belgium – February 5th, 2025

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Bosnia and Herzegovina

“His Highness’s entire life has been dedicated to a humanitarian mission to preserve the highest values of humanity.

 

This Award is a symbolic gesture of our gratitude for your support of our city and people in the most challenging times.”

 

~ Safet Orucevic, Director,

Center for Peace & Multiethnic Cooperation Mostar,

former Mayor of Mostar (1994-2001),

at Peace Connection Award presentation ceremony

and conferment of the Mostar Charter of Peace on

the Aga Khan Trust for Culture,

Lisbon, Portugal – October 28th, 2024

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Burkina Faso

“I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan.

 

His loss is a profound one.

 

He was an extraordinary figure whose vision and generosity transformed countless lives, including my own and that of my family. His legacy is one of inspiration, empowerment, and an unwavering commitment to architecture, culture, and community.

 

Receiving the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2004 for the very first building I ever built, a school in my village of Gando, was an unbelievable honour.

 

This recognition not only marked a turning point in my career, allowing the world to discover my work, but it also gave me a deeply personal and emotional gift. For that, my family and I owe the Aga Khan our eternal gratitude.

 

I had always struggled to explain to my father what life was like beyond Burkina Faso. Even though he had given me the chance to learn to read and write and to come to Germany to study architecture, I did not have the words to share what I had experienced.

 

It was only until I received the Aga Khan Award, and through the generosity of the Aga Khan himself, that I was able to take him on a journey beyond Gando. To this day, I remember sitting next to him on our way to the Aga Khan Award Ceremony on a plane from Ouagadougou to Paris, then from Paris to Delhi, witnessing his expression as he saw the modern world for the first time. It was a moment of profound connection, made possible by the Aga Khan — a testament to his ability to open doors, bridge worlds, and change lives.

 

Therefore, not only for me but for my family, his passing is an immeasurable loss.

 

Especially, he was a great source of inspiration. I always approached him with the deepest humility, to the point that in his presence, I could barely find the words to express myself.

 

I remember being invited to speak at the Architecture League in New York. I had prepared my speech, with insightful points even suggested by Farrokh Derakhshani.

 

But as I stood before the audience and saw the Aga Khan seated in front of me, I found myself unable to speak. Overwhelmed by the weight of the moment, I decided to be completely honest and simply said:

 

‘You are here, looking at me — how can I possibly give a speech worthy of honouring all that you have made possible for me, and all that you have done for architecture, art, culture, and the global community?’

 

Such was the depth of my admiration and gratitude for him.

 

His passing leaves a void, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure.

 

 

His vision, his generosity, and his unwavering belief in the power of architecture to uplift humanity will continue to inspire generations to come.”

 

~ Francis Kéré,

Internationally renowned Burkinabè Architect,

2004 Laureate of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture,

2022 Laureate of the Pritzker Architecture Prize,

Founder, Kéré Architecture GmbH,

Founder, Kéré Foundation e.V., a Non-Profit Organisation,

Guest Faculty Scholar at TU München, the Harvard Graduate School of Design, the Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio and Yale University,

Exhibitions premiered at the Venice Biennale of Architecture, the Museo ICO in Madrid, the Architekturmuseum in Munich and the Philadelphia Museum of Art,

Berlin, Germany – February, 18th 2025

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Canada

“By your peerless example of tolerance and compassion, we are proud to have you count as a member of the University of Toronto family … it is deeply moving and appropriate for us to welcome as an honorary graduate a man who is perhaps the only person in the world to whom everyone listens.”

 

~ the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson,

Canada’s 26th Governor General (1999-2005),

Doctor of Sacred Letters honoris causa citation,

Trinity College, University of Toronto,

Toronto, Canada – November 25th, 2013

 

“Like every Canadian Prime Minister over the past 60 years, I had the opportunity to work closely with the Aga Khan. One moment in particular has stayed vividly in my mind.

 

It was just weeks after 9/11. The world was still reeling from the unspeakable terror attacks. I hosted the Aga Khan in January 2002 in Ottawa. Our agenda was his vision of using the concept of pluralism as a practical means of fostering peace and helping to bring about greater stability in fragile societies and failed or failing states. What struck me then has stayed with me since.

 

In that moment of tremendous global danger, while other international leaders were preaching messages of militancy and hate, while my own colleagues among Western leaders were looking – vainly, it would turn out – to military solutions, the Aga Khan spoke movingly but clearly and determinedly about the practical, on-the-ground improvements that could be made in the day-to-day lives of people in some of the world’s most troubled lands. Instead of bluster and confrontation, he spoke of understanding and mutual support. Instead of emphasizing the differences that drive nations and societies apart from one another, he talked about our common humanity.

 

In fact, it was in that meeting that we discussed his idea of making Canada the home for an international centre to promote a world where human differences are valued and diverse societies thrive. In an angry, frightened, traumatized world, while other leaders prepared for war, the Aga Khan was laying the plans for a Global Centre for Pluralism.

 

What was true 17 years ago in the dark days following 9/11 is as true today in a world that in many ways seems often angrier and more frightened – especially here in the West. Now entering his seventh decade as leader of his faith, he keeps persevering, undiminished and undeterred. And we need his passion and his message more than ever.

 

Perhaps it’s not too surprising that I should be drawn to the Aga Khan and his example. In many ways, his credo of bridge-building, respect for human dignity, his devotion to moderation and decency, his celebration of diversity and pluralism, are what our own country, Canada, is all about.

 

That’s why our country’s Parliament, during the government of my successor, Stephen Harper, granted His Highness the very rare tribute of Honorary Canadian Citizenship.

 

It’s why the Aga Khan’s Global Centre for Pluralism chose Ottawa – of all the capitals of the world – for its headquarters. He chose Canada so he could showcase a world where human differences are valued and diverse societies thrive.

 

And it’s why the Canadian government, year after year, has worked so effectively with the Aga Khan Foundation Canada in delivering development programmes ranging from rural development in Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Tajikistan to early childhood education in East Africa.

 

Because we recognize in this man and in his faith a good deal of what inspires the best in ourselves. That dialogue and understanding are a means to peace and stability. That what makes each of us different does not need to be a source of conflict or envy or suspicion, but instead something to treasure and celebrate.

 

Like me, you may just think of these characteristics as the “Canadian Way.” But they’re also in short supply in today’s world. That makes our mission as a country more important. And it makes the work of the Aga Khan indispensable.”

 

~ Jean Chrétien,

Canada’s 20th Prime Minister (1993-2003),

Ottawa, Canada – May 1st, 2018

 

“Your Highness, there are no superlatives to adequately describe the admiration Canadians have for the work that you and your organizations do in the service of pluralism, peace and development around the world. You truly inspire our own hopes for a better world.

 

As you yourself have said, your Highness, and I quote, ‘We cannot make the world safe for democracy unless we also make the world safe for diversity.’ If I may say so, sir, you sound like a Canadian. And in fact, you are. On June 19, 2009, our House of Commons voted unanimously to bestow Honourary Canadian Citizenship on His Highness the Aga Khan. This is, if I may say, a richly deserved honour.

 

The motion introduced by our Government recognized, and I quote:

 

“Our decision to extend Canadian citizenship to His Highness recognizes the reality of values shared, and values acted on. His Highness’s lifelong advocacy for humanitarianism, pluralism and tolerance has gone far beyond words.

 

Similarly, through the AKDN, His Highness has been tireless in humanitarian and development initiatives in Africa, in Asia, including in Afghanistan, where the Network continues to be a brave partner in Canada’s effort to secure and improve the lives of Afghan citizens.”

 

To which I would only add, that the motion also recognizes the exquisite symmetry between your values and Canadian values, and our deep appreciation for the extraordinary contributions you are making to Canada and the world through the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, the Global Centre for Pluralism and the Aga Khan Museum.

 

It is therefore my great honour and pleasure, on behalf of the Government and people of Canada, to formally present you today with Honourary Canadian Citizenship. Welcome to our home and native land, your Highness. It is, now and forever your home, your Highness, your home as well.”

 

~ Stephen Harper,

Canada’s 22nd Prime Minister (2006-15),

presenting the Honorary Canadian Citizenship,

at the Foundation Ceremony for the Ismaili Centre and the Aga Khan Museum and Park,

Toronto, Canada – May 28th, 2010

 

“It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan. A celebrated leader, His Highness was an inspiration to many.

 

He was also a dear friend to my father as well as to me and my family. In truth, he was a friend to all Canadians, and to everyone who dreams of a more peaceful world.

 

His Highness dedicated his life to compassion and prosperity for all. Through his initiatives in education, health care, and economic development. Through his advocacy for building bridges between communities and helping those most marginalized, especially women and girls. Through his steadfast commitment to diversity and inclusion.

 

Respected and beloved internationally, His Highness was an honorary Canadian citizen and honorary Companion of the Order of Canada.

 

His connection to our country will live on through the Global Centre for Pluralism, the charitable organization inspired by the Aga Khan’s efforts to build a better, kinder world.

 

His Highness’ legacy will also live on through the Toronto-based Aga Khan Museum, North America’s first museum dedicated exclusively to Islamic arts.

 

I join millions of Ismaili Muslims, including communities in Canada, to mourn his loss. On behalf of all Canadians, I offer our deepest condolences to the Aga Khan’s family and friends, and to followers of His Highness in Canada and around the world.”

 

~ Justin Trudeau,

Government of Canada Press Release,

Canada’s 23nd Prime Minister (2015-25),

Ottawa, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“The Aga Khan devoted his life to peace and prosperity for all.

 

He worked across continents and cultures to resolve the world’s greatest humanitarian challenges: poverty, education, and gender inequality.

 

He was an extraordinary man of vision, faith, and generosity, and I know his legacy wil live on through the many lives he touched.

 

Following the news of his passing, my family and I send our condolences to His Highness’ family, his many friends, and to all Ismaili Muslims in Canada and around the world who are mourning this loss.”

 

~ Justin Trudeau,

on his personal social media Instagram post,

Canada’s 23nd Prime Minister (2015-25),

Ottawa, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“The Ismaili community is grounded in the values of faith, education, and justice.

 

Values that His Highness the Aga Khan lived.

 

I was honoured to have met His Highness and was inspired by his example of service.

 

I join the entire Ismaili community in mourning his loss.”

 

~ Mark Carney,

Canada’s 24th Prime Minister (2025+),

UN Special Envoy, Climate Action & Finance (2020-5),

Chair of the Financial Stability Board (2011-8),

120th Governor, Bank of England (2013-20),

8th Governor, Bank of Canada (2008-13),

Ottawa, Canada – February 4th, 2025

 

“I would like to thank Steve Paikin for making time to pay tribute to one of the most singular figures across two centuries – His Highness the Aga Khan IV.

 

May he rest in peace.

 

And for allowing me the privilege to help recount this legacy.”

 

~ Ambassador Arif Lalani,

Senior Advisor, Strategy Corp,

Distinguished Fellow, Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy (where he also teaches),

Distinguished Fellow, Centre for International Governance Innovation,

Senior Fellow, International Security Program, New America,

Advisory Committee Member, Prince’s Trust International,

Mediation Advisory Board Member at Global Affairs Canada,

former Head of the Department of Diplomatic Affairs of the global Seat of Ismaili Imamat,

Canada’s former Ambassador to Jordan (2006), Iraq (2006), Afghanistan (2007) and the United Arab Emirates (2012),

Canada’s former Ambassador to Turkey (with accreditation to Georgia and Azerbaijan) (1994),

Canada’s former Representative to the United Nations Security Council (New York)

and to Washington DC (1999–2000),

Canada’s first Special Envoy to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (2013),

Toronto, Canada – February 11th, 2025

 

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Canada’s Representatives to the Ismaili Imamat

Canada and the Ismaili Imamat enjoy a long-standing, mutually beneficial relationship, including through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network and Aga Khan Foundation Canada, both of which are strategic partners of Canada in the promotion of democracy and reduction of poverty around the world.

“Canada has been inspired by the work of the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network to reduce poverty, improve education and healthcare, empower women and girls, and help develop infrastructure in underserved regions.

 

Over many years, these efforts have improved the lives of quite literally millions of people around the world.”

The Government of Canada, through the appointment of the Representative of Canada to the Ismaili Imamat, reflects the importance that Canada places on its partnership with the Ismaili Imamat.

2014 saw the signing of a Protocol of Understanding between the Government of Canada and the Ismaili Imamat. The Protocol enables reciprocal appointments of diplomatic representatives. Mr Goodale is the third appointee by Canada since the signing of the protocol and succeeds Marc-André Blanchard, Canada’s then Ambassador to the United Nations in New York, and Gordon Campbell, Canada’s then High Commissioner in the United Kingdom. Dr. Mahmoud Eboo, is the Representative of the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat to Canada.

As Representative of Canada to the Ismaili Imamat, work to further enhance relations through strategic-level dialogue and collaboration on areas of shared interest, such as international development, foreign policy, peace, and security, and on shared trade and economic objectives, as well as on the promotion of human rights, pluralism, and respect for diversity, will be mutually advanced.

“As Canada’s Representative to the Ismaili Imamat, I extend deepest sympathies to His Highness’s family, all the Aga Khan entities in Canada & the entire Ismaili community.

 

Humanitarianism, peace, development & vibrant pluralism are among his fine legacies.”

 

“Within Canada, the Ismaili community has flourished for the past 50 years and it contributes very significantly to enhancing the strength and the prosperity of our diverse country.

 

Through their unwavering dedication to service and to helping other people and those in need, the Ismaili Muslim community exemplifies the best of what it means to be Canadian.”

 

~ Ralph Goodale,

Canada’s Representative to the Ismaili Imamat (2023+),

High Commissioner of Canada in the UK of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (2021+),

Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization,

London, England – February 4th, 2025

 

“Condolences to the family of His Highness the Aga Khan and ⁦the Ismaili community in Canada and around the world.

 

His words on pluralism will resonate forever:

 

‘Pluralism is no longer an asset or a prerequisite for progress and development, it is vital to our existence’.

 

[It has been] an honour and privilege to represent Canada to the Ismaili Imamat.

 

The Ismaili community makes a significant contribution in Canada and throughout the world.

 

The Aga Khan’s celebration of pluralism is an inspiration to the world.

 

Canada is a proud development partner of AKDN.”

 

~ Marc-Andre Blanchard,

Representative of Canada to the Ismaili Imamat (2018-20),

Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York (2016-20),

former Chair & CEO, McCarthy Tétrault,

London, England – February 4th, 2025

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2008: His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV on the Spirit of Connection during the opening of the international headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism

Ottawa, Canada: May 16, 2017

“Throughout the history of Canada, the Ottawa River has been a meeting place for diverse peoples, originally the First Nations, and then the British and the French, and more recently Canadians from many different backgrounds. It symbolizes the spirit of connection. And the spirit of connection, of course, is at the very heart of the Global Centre for Pluralism (GCP).

It was with Prime Minister Jean Chretien, that we first discussed the idea of founding a new pluralism centre, and it was with Prime Minister Paul Martin who helped develop the plan. Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government sealed the partnership and Minister Bev Oda then signed with me the establishing Agreement. Minister Melanie Joly has also given strong support to the GCP. And Prime Minister Trudeau has articulated, with conviction and with passion, the need for pluralism in our world.”

 

“Trinity College in the University of Toronto is conferring the degree of Doctor of Sacred Letters on His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan in recognition of his contribution to peace, security and the well-being of millions of people throughout the world.

 

His encouragement of pluralism and dialogue among all races and religions, and the global institutional framework he has established in many troubled areas of the world to further these goals and provide education and health services through the Aga Khan Development Network, is an inspiration to us all.

 

He has enriched our country by establishing major institutions in Canada such as the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto.

 

Based in one of the most diverse cities in the world, Trinity College is proud to be home to students who reflect that diversity, in nationality, ethnicity and culture. Home to a renowned international relations program – an undergraduate degree program that brings historical, political and economic perspectives to the relationships between nations in today’s global environment – the College looks forward to new and exciting opportunities to collaborate with the Aga Khan Development Network.

 

Trinity College’s Divinity Faculty graduates priests in the Anglican tradition, this honorary degree, granted to the Aga Khan in the presence of the Archbishop of Toronto, symbolizes the importance of interfaith dialogue that is a cornerstone of our faiths.

 

Countless Canadians have benefited from His Highness’s contributions to our country and have participated in his endeavours to improve the lives of the less fortunate around the world.”

 

~ William C. Graham,

Chancellor, Trinity College at the University of Toronto,

Canada’s Minister of National Defense (2004-6),

Minister of Foreign Affairs (2002-4),

at conferment of Doctor of Sacred Letters honoris causa,

Trinity College, University of Toronto,

Toronto, Canada – November 25th, 2013

 

“To the Ismaili Shia Muslim community, and all people of peace,

 

As we join with many in mourning the death of Prince Karim Aga Khan, I extend on behalf of the Anglican Church of Canada our deepest condolences to his family and to our Ismaili Muslim neighbours here in Canada and all over the world. The loss of such a visionary, compassionate and generous spiritual and philanthropic leader will be deeply felt.

 

The connections of the Aga Khan to Canada and to our churches have been significant. I think with particularly fond memory to 2013, when he was awarded an honourary Doctor of Sacred Letters degree from Trinity College at the University of Toronto for his decades of service to humanity.

 

I also reflect on the many opportunities that Anglican Christians have had to engage in dialogue and partnership with Ismaili Muslims in cities and communities across this country and opportunities to be inspired by the Aga Khan’s example of commitment to interreligious understanding as a path to justice and peace.

 

May the faith that inspired His Highness’ extraordinary contributions continue to sustain and guide you in this difficult time. We add our prayers to yours and grieve with you.”

 

~ Archbishop Anne Germond,

Acting Primate,

Anglican Church of Canada,

Toronto, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“With deep sorrow, we join the University of Alberta community and the world in mourning the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.

 

The Aga Khan was a tremendous supporter of post-secondary education and a valued friend of the University of Alberta. As an Honorary Degree recipient and through partnerships with the Aga Khan University and the Aga Khan Development Network, he helped advance education and global development.

 

The Aga Khan Garden, Alberta, was gifted by His Highness the Aga Khan to the University of Alberta and opened in 2018, a lasting symbol of our shared commitment to knowledge, culture, and collaboration.

 

We extend our deepest condolences to His Highness’s family and the global Ismaili community. His legacy of leadership and service will continue to inspire us.”

 

~ Nizar J. Somji, Chancellor,

~ Bill Flanagan, President and Vice-Chancellor,

University of Alberta,

Edmonton, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“It is with great sadness that the University of Calgary joins the world in mourning the loss of His Highness, the Aga Khan.

 

The University of Calgary has a special connection to the Aga Khan, who graciously accepted an Honorary Doctor of Laws degree — UCalgary’s highest academic honour — at a ceremony held in October 2018 on campus, which was viewed by thousands around the world via a livestream broadcast.

 

The Aga Khan [has] a long history of altruism, contributing billions of dollars toward the building of hospitals, homes and schools in developing countries through his Aga Khan Development Network. His philanthropy reached more than 30 countries, particularly the poorest areas in Africa and Asia.

 

UCalgary benefited greatly from His Highness’s visionary efforts through research partnerships with Aga Khan University campuses in Pakistan, Kenya and Uganda. The faculties of graduate studies, nursing, arts, and the Werklund School of Education were among those supported by these partnerships.

 

We have been enriched by the Aga Khan’s intellectual legacy through our Memorandum of Understanding with the Aga Khan Development Network and the Global Centre for Pluralism. The world-leading UCalgary Pluralism Initiative is enshrining shared understanding and dialogue in higher education through this partnership, and was recently featured by UNESCO.

 

The Aga Khan will be deeply missed by the UCalgary community. We grieve with the global Ismaili community and those who admire the Aga Khan — and will continue to honour our shared values as we strive to create a knowledge society guided by pluralism.”

 

~ University of Calgary,

Calgary, Canada – February 10th, 2025

 

“With deep sadness, we acknowledge the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan IV.

 

His lifelong commitment to improving health and education, particularly in underserved communities, has had a profound impact.”

 

~ The University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine,

Calgary, Canada – February 10th, 2025

 

“In 2018, I had the pleasure of meeting His Highness Karim Aga Khan when SFU [Simon Fraser University] and UBC [University of British Columbia] conferred onto him a joint honourary degree [a first for both universities] — the highest possible honour from our institutions.

 

Today, inspired by his encouragement and belief in the power of education, SFU shares a close and collaborative partnership with the Aga Khan Development Network.

 

His Highness Karim Aga Khan was an inspiring leader who shared an unwavering vision of hope and unity for the world.

 

My thoughts are with the Ismaili community and all those whose lives were touched by his leadership.

 

I would also like to congratulate His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan and look forward to hearing more about the important work that the AKDN will advance across the world.”

 

~ Joy Johnson,

President and Vice Chancellor at Simon Fraser University,

Burnaby, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“The OCAD University community mourns the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

 

The University has collaborated with its valued partner, the Aga Khan Museum, for the past three years, hosting Light Up the Dark, a collection of animated and stop-motion projections created by students and graduates of the Experimental Animation program.

 

The Aga Khan Museum, which opened in 2014, “was created as an educational institution that initiates cross-cultural dialogue with the goal of contributing to a more inclusive and connected world.”

 

The spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims around the world, The Aga Khan was deeply engaged in the arts and was widely recognized for his charitable foundation, establishing the Global Centre for Pluralism, and supporting development projects globally.”

 

~ Ontario College of Art & Design University (OCAD U),

OCAD U is Canada’s oldest, largest and leading Art and Design University,

Toronto, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“The board and team members of the John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights extend our sincere condolences to our friends and partners in the the Ismaili Canada community on the passing of Mawlana Shah Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV.

 

Throughout his lifetime, the Aga Khan showed monumental leadership in the promotion of human rights and peace building.

 

We honour our friends of faith, and reflect on the life and legacy of an individual who used his privileged position to advocate for a more peaceful and just world for everyone.”

 

~ John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights,

Edmonton, Canada – February 10th, 2025

 

“Our condolences to Ismaili Muslims in Canada and around the world on the passing of His Highness The Aga Khan, one of the six recipients of Honorary Canadian Citizenship.

 

The “Turning Points For Humanity” Gallery at the The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) [the first museum in the world solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration and future of human rights] recognizes him for advancing tolerance and human rights globally.”

 

~ Canadian Federation for Citizenship (CFC),

Founded during Canada’s Sesquicentennial,

Calgary, Canada – February 10th, 2025

 

“The Directors of the Board and staff of the Global Centre for Pluralism are deeply saddened at the passing of our Founder and Chair. We offer our condolences to the family of His Highness and to the Ismaili community worldwide.

 

A visionary leader and philanthropist, His Highness leaves an unparalleled legacy of institutions around the world dedicated to advancing human development, including the founding, in partnership with the Government of Canada, of the Global Centre for Pluralism.

 

“His Highness’ recognition that pluralism is at the core of how we advance and succeed as societies is one of the most important contributions to our modern age. It is the responsibility of all of us to carry that vision forward to honour his legacy.”

 

His Highness articulated his commitment to pluralism throughout his lifetime and his words remind us, in these sad moments of his passing, of how centrally important pluralism is to humanity. As His Highness remarked at the inauguration of the Former War Museum as the headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralism in 2017:

 

Connection does not necessarily mean agreement. It does not mean that we want to eliminate our differences or erase our distinctions. Far from it. What it does mean is that we connect with one another in order to learn from one another and to build our future together.

 

Pluralism does not mean the elimination of difference but the embrace of difference. Genuine pluralism understands that diversity does not weaken a society, it strengthens it. In an ever shrinking, ever more diverse world, a genuine sense of pluralism is the indispensable foundation for human peace and progress. From the start, this is a vision that the Ismaili Imamat and the Government of Canada have deeply shared.

 

His Highness reminds us that “pluralist societies are not accidents of history”, that pluralist societies require conscious choices. In that spirit, His Highness’ legacy inspires all of us to make these choices, to work towards pluralism and across differences in our communities, in our institutions, in our societies.

 

His Highness held a special relationship with Canada, spanning five decades, when the government of Pierre Trudeau welcomed thousands of Ismaili refugees from Uganda in 1972.

 

From his speech on Leadership and Diversity at the Governor General’s Leadership Conference in 2004 to the 10th Annual LaFontaine-Baldwin Lecture in 2010 and his address to Parliament in 2014, His Highness spoke of the immense importance of pluralism.

 

Together with Prime Minister Stephen Harper, His Highness finalised the partnership with Canada for the Global Centre for Pluralism in 2009 and oversaw the transformation of the former War Museum as its global headquarters, opened in 2017.”

 

~ Meredith Preston McGhie,

Secretary General, Global Centre for Pluralism,

Ottawa, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“The passing of His Highness the Aga Khan IV marks the loss of a visionary leader whose profound influence shaped not only the Ismaili community but the architectural and cultural fabric of societies worldwide.

 

At Moriyama Teshima Architects, we are deeply honoured to have collaborated with His Highness on projects such as the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat in Ottawa, as well as the Aga Khan Museum and the Ismaili Centre in Toronto.

 

 

These collaborations embodied more than design — they were guided by His Highness’s belief in architecture’s transformative power to foster pluralism, understanding, and spiritual reflection. Working alongside esteemed architects Fumihiko Maki and Charles Correa, we witnessed firsthand His Highness’s unwavering commitment to creating spaces where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously and cultural dialogue is nurtured.

 

His vision challenged us to think beyond physical structures, reminding us that architecture has the potential to be a bridge between communities, a symbol of shared humanity, and a beacon of hope.

 

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, the Ismaili community, and all those inspired by his extraordinary legacy.”

 

~ Moriyama Teshima Architects,

Toronto, Canada – February 6th, 2025

 

“In 2013, the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) awarded His Highness the Aga Khan its highest honour — the RAIC Gold Medal.

 

The selection of His Highness marked the first time in more than 30 years that a non-architect had been chosen to receive the Gold Medal, and recognized the Aga Khan’s extraordinary achievements in using architecture as an instrument to further peaceful and sustainable community development around the world.

 

In recognizing His Highness, the RAIC took note of his remarkable accomplishments in various aspects of the field of architecture as part of his broader social and economic development work through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).

 

This included the specialized cultural programming undertaken through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, the restoration of many heritage sites throughout the Muslim world by the Aga Khan Historic Cities Programme, and the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.”

 

~ Canadian Architect,

Royal Architectural Institute of Canada,

Toronto, Canada – February 7th, 2025

 

“Skiing and horses, yes. World leaders, for sure. But what Prince Karim Aga Khan IV liked to talk about most was social structures and how they shape the world — from economic progress to political divisions and neighbourhoods and parks.

 

As hereditary leader of the world’s 15 million Ismaili Muslims, and a confidante of royals, presidents, prime ministers and celebrities, the Aga Khan was a quiet but towering voice in global affairs and international development, from the moment he ascended to the role, in 1957, to his death last week, at age 88.

 

As a foreign correspondent for the Globe in the 1990s, I explored and wrote about the Ismaili community’s development work, from irrigation systems in the northern mountains of Pakistan to remote health clinics in Afghanistan and rural schools in East Africa. And while, during those years, I came across a lot of questionable development projects, I didn’t see those faults in the Aga Khan’s network.

 

He foresaw, in a globalized world, how local problems could become regional problems and then global problems. He shared that view in our 2014 interview, when we spoke for more than an hour about the then faltering Arab Spring, not fully appreciating the refugee crisis and ensuing divisions it would unleash.

 

He saw a special place for Canada, as a country and society that embraces newcomers and gives them legal rights, social protections and community support. He discovered this in the early 1970s when negotiating exile in Canada for Ismailis from East Africa. They and their descendants are among the most successful communities in Canada, which he attributed to our legal and education systems, as well as our sense of inclusion. He chalked it up to “pluralism” — the ability of a society to incorporate competing interests, views and lifestyles — and helped create a Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa to promote it.

 

He saw legal rights as critical to community. He called Canada (he was made an Honorary Citizen) a “model” to the world, because of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the many subsequent acts that protect minority rights.

 

International development matters. To everything. Prince Karim took on the title of Aga Khan in 1957, just when international development and foreign aid were coming into their own. As a young adult, he travelled the developing world, most notably Africa, and saw the desperate need for aid, not just from governments but non-government organizations, too, as they represented the goodwill of religious groups, students, professional societies and so many more. His own development network (I sat on the national council for two terms) became a standard-bearer for effective aid, and remains one of Canada’s most important allies.

 

Education matters above most else. The Aga Khan’s work championed basic education in the 1960s, and then expanded to post-secondary education, most notably its nursing and medical schools in South Asia and East Africa. But decades later, he began to worry that higher education for its own sake had become too political in many countries where young people felt entitled to a university degree and then entitled to a job-for-life, often in government. During one of our last conversations, he shared with me that one of Canada’s greatest contributions to low-income countries would be to help them reform their post-secondary systems to adapt to a 21st century economy. I told him Canada might want to fix our own system first, for the same reasons. He suggested we look to do it in tandem with others, to benefit them and us.

 

That suggestion stayed with me. For all the commentary about his lifestyle, which I never saw first-hand, I found him to be among the most pragmatic leaders I have met. Indeed, a pragmatic idealism may be one of his lasting legacies.”

 

~ John Stackhouse,

SVP, Office of the CEO, Royal Bank of Canada,

Host of Disruptors, an RBC podcast,

Senior Fellow, C.D. Howe Institute and

Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy,

former Editor-in-Chief, Globe and Mail,

former Editor. Report on Business,

Toronto, Canada – February 9th, 2025

 

“On this “brisk” winter day [Feb 5] in Edmonton, thinking about the late Aga Khan’s generous gift to the University of Alberta Botanic Garden.

 

The world’s Ismaili community is mourning.

 

But know that the Aga Khan’s memory will be a blessing here for decades.”

 

~ Senator Paula Simons,

Senator for Alberta,

Independent Senators Group,

Treaty Six Territory & Edmonton, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“There are many things I am proud of – one I am loud about – being Canadian and the other more private – being a member of the Ismaili community.

 

An Ismaili is a member of the Isma’ili community, a branch of Shia Islam. Ismailis believe in a living hereditary Imam, or spiritual leader, who descends from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

 

Today [Feb 4], His Highness The Aga Khan, spiritual leader of 15 million Ismailis passed away. For sure this is a loss for our community. It is also a loss for the world.

 

He leaves behind an incredible legacy as a spiritual leader, a businessman and as a philanthropist of Aga Khan Development Network and as a Global Founding Patron of The King’s Trust including The King’s Trust Canada.

 

Inna lillahi was inna ilayhi rajiun.

 

May he rest in peace.”

 

~ Senator Farah Mohamed,

Senator for Ontario,

former CEO, King’s Trust Canada,

former CEO, Malala Fund,

Founder & Advisor to G(irls)20,

Toronto, Canada – February 4th, 2025

 

“His Highness Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, has died.

 

His vision of tolerance and pluralism was at once inspiring and deeply practical.

 

His community has led the way in global support for health, education and human rights.

 

The world, the UN, and Canada have lost a great friend.”

 

~ Bob Rae,

Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York (2020+),

President, Economic & Social Council (ECOSOC) (2025),

Vice-President of the Assembly of States Parties of the

International Criminal Court (ICC) (2021–3),

Special Envoy of Canada to Myanmar (2017+),

21st Premier of Ontario (1990-5),

New York, USA – February 4th, 2025

 

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of His Highness Mawlana Shah Karim Al-Hussaini, The Aga Khan.

 

He was a remarkable leader and truly one of the most impressive individuals I have ever met.

 

Undoubtedly, he stood among the most successful leaders of the past century.”

 

~ John Baird,

Canadian Foreign Minister (2011-5),

Minister of the Environment (2010-1),

Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (2008-10),

Toronto, Canada – February 4th, 2025

 

“My deepest condolences to my many friends in the Ismaili community around the world on the death of their spiritual leader, His late Highness Prince Karim, the Aga Khan.

 

His Highness was a true man of peace who worked tirelessly throughout his long life to build bridges of understanding between the world’s faith communities, and to advance development amongst the poor and marginalized.

 

He was a great champion of pluralism, and a lifelong friend of Canada. I was proud to work with him on the establishment of the Global Centre on Pluralism, and to play a role in naming him an honourary Canadian citizen.

 

I join with the Ismaili community in mourning his loss, while giving thanks for his decades of dignified and selfless service. RIP.”

 

~ Jason Kenney,

18th Premier of Alberta (2019-22),

Leader of the United Conservative Party (2017-22),

Canadian Minister of Defence (2015),

Minister of Multiculturalism (2013-5),

Calgary, Canada – February 4th, 2025

 

“I felt whenever I was fortunate enough to be with him a great warmth of spirituality.

 

What he has done to better the public good across the world is unparalleled.

 

He was a master at bringing governments, institutions and people together to make lives better.”

 

~ John Ralston Saul,

President of PEN International,

53rd Viceregal consort of Canada,

Toronto, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“As an Ismaili Muslim, I am devastated by the news of the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan.

 

As a Canadian and a citizen of the world, I also mourn the loss of one of the greatest servants of humanity but I am also deeply grateful for his extraordinary life of service.

 

Countless lives have been lifted out of poverty, and countless communities around this world have thrived because of him.

 

My own family, and every Canadian Ismaili family, owes everything we are and everything we have to his leadership and guidance.

 

This is a period of mourning and indescribable grief for all in our faith community.”

 

~ Naheed Nenshi,

Leader of the Alberta New Democratic Party (NDP),

36th Mayor of Calgary (2010-21),

City Mayors Foundation’s World Mayor 2014 Prize recipient,

former McKinsey & Co Consultant,

Calgary, Canada – February 4th, 2025

 

“His Highness the Aga Khan dedicated his life to pluralism, helping us discover our common humanity.

 

He was the spiritual leader of 15 million Ismailis who live in 25 countries.

 

As a Canadian, I am deeply grateful for his role in bringing 6,000 Ismaili refugees from Idi Amin’s Uganda to safety in this country.

 

They number more than 80,000 today and have made this country better in thousands of ways.

 

A giant has left us, but his impact on Canada and his example will never be diminished.”

 

~ Christy Clark,

35th Premier of British Columbia (2011-7),

Leader of the BC Liberal Party (2011-7),

Vancouver, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

“I was profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan.

 

I extend my deepest sympathies to his followers in our wonderful Ismaili community.

 

They are so rightly proud of his complete dedication to respect and understanding between the peoples of the world.”

 

~ John Tory,

65th Mayor of Toronto (2014-23),

Leader of the Ontario Progressive Conservative Party (2004-9),

Toronto, Canada – February 4th, 2025

 

“Yesterday, the world lost His Highness the Aga Khan, a visionary global leader dedicated to improving the quality of life for Ismaili Muslims and other members of the global community.

 

He transcended borders through his commitment to education, gender equality, and poverty.

 

Let us remember and honour his transformative contributions to improving society, fostering understanding, and uplifting humanity.

 

May his legacy live on through the countless lives he impacted and the institutions he built that continue to serve communities worldwide.

 

“The right to hope is the most powerful human motivation I know.” – Aga Khan IV

 

Learn more about His Highness the Aga Khan IV’s legacy.”

 

~ Karen Young, President and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area,

Calgary, Canada – February 5th, 2025

 

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China

“It is with great sadness that China Horse Club and TAK Group of Companies joins the voices of so many in mourning the loss of His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV.

 

His Contributions over many decades, most notably through the Aga Khan development Network, has been transformative.

 

Ar. Teo Ah Khing, Chairman, China Horse Club & TAK Group of Companies, pays tribute to HH Aga Khan IV:

 

“I fondly remember first meeting with the Aga Khan at Haras de Bonneval in 2012 and the breadth of advice he kindly shared which has proven to be a guiding light on our journey at China Horse Club.”

 

Beyond the Aga Khan’s legacy within the industry we love, his contributions of improving the futures of communities the world over, especially in regions of conflict, and to also inspiring through the world of architecture, has been undeniable.

 

Our condolences extend to Princess Zahra and her family on the loss of a truly great man who left the world in a better place than he found it.”

 

 

~ Ar. Teo Ah Khing,

Chairman,

China Horse Club & TAK Group of Companies,

Teo A. Khing Design Consultants,

Shanghai Entrepreneur Association,

Singapore – February 6th, 2025

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Denmark

“This is a unique moment – not only for nursing, but for health care as we honour a remarkable individual who during the course of his distinguished life, continues to leave upon world health, the indelible mark of a world class leader – his leadership in promoting global health and welfare, and for his compassionate support of nursing and nursing research in developing countries.”

 

~ Patricia Thompson,

President,

presenting the Archon Award, from the International Nursing Honour Society, Sigma Theta Tau International,

at the 12th International Nursing Research Congress and the International Council of Nurses’ 22nd Quadrennial Congress,

Copenhagen, Denmark – June 7th, 2001

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France

“The Prince Aga Khan devoted his life to the promotion of peace, tolerance and development.

 

[France] in 2018 awarded him the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour – France’s highest national medal in recognition of his philanthropic work.

 

His commitment to dialogue between cultures will remain a source of inspiration for us all.

 

To his family and loved ones, my condolences.”

 

~ Emmanuel Macron,

President of France,

Paris, France – February 6th, 2025

 

“You are Sir, a man true to your commitments, a man of his word and a man of peace.

 

And for all that you have accomplished in your life for our country, and for the stability of the world, France wishes tonight to warmly express its gratitude by elevating you to the dignity of the Grand Cross in the order of the Legion of Honour.

 

Sir, on behalf of the President of the Republic, and by virtue of the powers conferred upon me, we bestow you the dignity of the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour.”

 

~ Jean-Yves Le Drian,

France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs,

conferring France’s highest national medal of honour,

La Grand-croix de la Légion d’honneur

(Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour),

Paris, France – September 20th, 2018

 

“… the planet is truly your home; openness, tolerance and inter-faith dialogue are your heritage. You have each made your mark on the contemporary world.

 

In paying tribute to you this evening, we are reminded that the Ismaili faith, through its message of peace and bridge-building, is more than ever at the forefront of dialogue between the great monotheist religions.

 

Wherever Ismailis live, we find the particular combination of meditation, tolerance and solidarity that characterises your community.

 

Since the nineteenth century the Ismaili faith has masterfully demonstrated, through its international network of charitable organisations, that its spiritual beliefs are anchored in the secular world.”

 

These values have been upheld and embodied by your family to the highest degree.

 

In welcoming you here this evening we also pay homage to the memory of your grandfather, His Highness the 48th Imam, who had the onerous task of being Secretary General of the League of Nations in 1937 and 1938, in a political climate requiring courage from all who were advocates for peace.

 

We also recall his French wife, Begum Mata Salamat, Mother of Peace, who will always be remembered, particularly by all those she helped, and who rests by her husband’s side on the banks of the Nile in Aswan.

 

… and your father Prince Ali Khan, Pakistani Ambassador to the United Nations … beloved by all, whom fate did not permit to deploy his extraordinary culture and spirit of civilisation to their full extent.

 

I am also thinking of the much-missed Prince Sadruddin, your uncle, who was United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees at a key period in the history of this institution with its vitally important mission.

 

Your Highness the Aga Khan,

 

I should like today to salute your exceptional cultural work, in all its richness and diversity, and in so doing I hope not to offend your modesty, as I know that, as a man of great worth, you are extraordinarily modest, often distancing yourself from your actions, working silently, far preferring influence to power, and discretion to the spotlight.

 

You are at once the illustrious descendant of a dynasty entrusted with a faith and a history, and a man resolutely grounded in your own time. A committed humanist, pragmatic idealist and businessman bursting with ideas, you have a thousand and one lives and projects, which you pursue always with the same ardour, convinced of the importance of vitality and creativity. You place your talents primarily at the service of others, and in particular your own people, the Ismailis. More than a passion, this is for you a vocation.

Many countries have benefited from your dynamism … Experts from the World Bank have made several trips to the aptly-named Karimabad to take note of the prodigious transformation of a difficult, isolated region into a land of plenty, where you have prioritised health, rural development and the education of women, in the shadow of the apricot trees and the soaring peaks of the Karakorams.

 

All these initiatives are carried out in line with the attention to perfection that is your hallmark; you apply the criteria of excellence to philanthropy. Your demanding standards are admired. Your hospitals, schools and banks are exemplary models, and organisations bearing the name Aga Khan offer a guarantee of quality to all.

 

The ambition of the great French princes has now been taken up by Your Highness; you have become the architect of a spectacular renaissance, which you mention with great modesty.

 

Your Highness, in the name of the French Republic, we present you with the insignia of Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters.

 

Prince Amyn Aga Khan,

 

It is an immense pleasure and a real honour to pay tribute tonight to a man of the arts, a man of refinement with a keen interest in heritage, and a passionate devotion to French and international culture.

 

A worthy heir to a family that continually expresses its support for cultural pluralism and has been involved in international work for several generations, you are today the head of many prestigious institutions working to improve the lives of peoples across the world.

Lastly I should like to recall, of course, your work as a patron of French culture and heritage.

 

The greatest French cultural institutions have benefited from your assistance. Reeling off a list of names is not sufficient to illustrate the scope of your engagement.

 

Since you are, among other things, the best minister of culture His Highness, your brother, could dream of, dear Prince Amyn, in the name of the French Republic, we present you with the insignia of Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters.”

 

~ M. Frédéric Mitterrand,

French Minister of Culture and Communication,

during the presentation of decorations to:

His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan

insignia of Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters

(Commandant de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres)

and

Prince Amyn Aga Khan

insignia of Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters

(Officier de l’ordre des Arts et des Lettres),

Paris, France – November 9th, 2010

 

“It is thanks to the determination and commitment of His Highness the Aga Khan IV that Chantilly and its surrounding area has once again become the historic jewel it deserves to be and that the reputation of its racecourse extends far beyond our borders.

 

Thanks to his commitment and enthusiasm, the famous colours of HH the Aga Khan have continued to write history in the racing and breeding books of our sport.

 

Throughout his life, Prince Karim Aga Khan played a pivotal role in the horseracing industry, whether it was his horses carrying his legendary silks to victory or as a breeder of champions.

 

On behalf of France Galop, Elie Hennau, chief executive officer, and Henri Pouret, deputy chief executive officer, as well as the France Galop employees and all those involved in the racing industry, I would like to extend my most sincere condolences to his daughter Princess Zahra Aga Khan, with whom he shared his passion for racing, as well as to his family and friends and to all the staff members working at his yards and studs.”

 

~ Guillaume de Saint-Seine,

Chair, France Galop,

Paris, France – February 5th, 2025

 

“I trained for him for over 40 years. I will never forget those two Arc wins, especially Zarkhava because she came from Petite Etoile, the filly of the Aga Khan’s herself.

 

I had great admiration for His Highness because he worked so hard and he had so many other responsibilities.

 

He was passionate about the racing but he was especially a breeder. As an owner-breeder, he was interested that I identify the level of each horse.

 

He was a visionary and he was so far ahead. It was easy to work with him because he would only make a decision once he had all the information to hand and it would never be done without careful thought. He could judge a gallop in the morning, he had a very good eye for that.

 

We had a very good connection. He leaves a big legacy because of the quality of his mares, they will be around for many years. He was the best owner you could have, when they are a breeder they understand everything, he never put you under too much pressure.”

 

~ Alain de Royer-Dupre,

Aga Khan Studs Trainer (1983-2021), Aiglemont training centre,

Aiglemont – Gouvieux – Chantilly,

Oise, France – February 5th, 2025

 

“I had a very long meeting with the Aga Khan four years ago when they were thinking about what to do about Aiglemont, and for me that was just an unforgettable day in my life, to sit in a living room with him and have a chat about racing and the future.

 

As a racing fan from an early age I read Courses et Elevage and obviously the Aga Khan silks and himself were just like heroes for me.

 

In my first year in training I won the Prix des Chenes with Pearl Flute, beating a two-year-old of the Aga Khan, and I remember I was talking to the press after the race in the paddock at Longchamp and he walked behind me with Alain de Royer-Dupre. He stopped and patted my shoulder and he said, ‘Very good job, young man, well done.’ I was not expecting it and I called my parents and said to them that it was like I had been touched by God. I was so happy.

 

I have really seen since I started training how people really love his racing colours.

 

Whoever they are – the big owners to the smallest owners or punters – the racing fans really love the green and red colours, and the Aga Khan himself.

 

~ Francis-Henri Graffard,

Aga Khan Studs Trainer (2022+), Aiglemont training centre,

Aiglemont – Gouvieux – Chantilly,

Oise, France – February 5th, 2025

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France – Paris Peace Forum

“Today the Paris Peace Forum is mourning the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan.  It is a sad day for peace, pluralism and philanthropy.

 

A leader of his community but also a humanist, an intellectual and a sportsman, he attended the inaugural edition of PPF in 2018 and several others (picture below is from PPF2 in 2019), and AKDN is a key, active and valued member of our Board through the leadership of Prince Amyn.

 

I was lucky enough to meet and talk with His Highness several times, and have time for a long lunch discussion with him back in 2019. He struck me as wise and profound, politically astute on all things diplomatic and religious, with a view to the long term. He also had a sparkling eye and immense kindness, which his philanthropic actions reflected.

 

To his family, especially his children and his grand-sons, we present our sincere condolences.”

 

~ Justin Vaïsse,

Founder and Director General,

Paris Peace Forum,

Paris, France – February 5th, 2025

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His Highness Aga Khan IV (1936-2025), the 49th Imam of the Isma’ili Muslims, was a religious leader, a businessman and a philanthropist known for his significant contributions to education and healthcare, funding numerous schools, universities, and hospitals worldwide.

 

His Foundation is strongly present in ten African countries. A wise defender of Islamic values and culture, he built key bridges between Muslim societies and the West.

 

As Mo Ibrahim stated to the Financial Times:

 

“He was a very modest and engaging man, surprising for someone of his stature and wealth.”

 

The Foundation extends its condolences to his family and community.”

 

~ Sir Mohammed Fathi Ahmed Ibrahim KCMG,

(more popularly known as Mo Ibrahim),

Founder, Mo Ibrahim Foundation,

Paris, France – February 10th, 2025

 

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Germany

“We are honouring an exceptional man. We are honouring a great friend of humanity, a courageous visionary, a builder of bridges between religions and society.”

 

~ Dr. Frank Walter Steinmeier,

Federal President, Federal Republic of Germany (2017+)

German Foreign Minister (2005-9 & 2013-7),

Vice Chancellor of Germany (2007-9),

Chairman-in-Office, Organization for Security and

Co-operation Europe (OSCE) (2016),

presenting the 2006 Tolerance Award of the

Evangelical Academy of Tutzing,

Germany – May 20th, 2006

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India

“Deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan. He was a visionary, who dedicated his life to service and spirituality.

 

His contributions in areas like health, education, rural development and women empowerment will continue to inspire several people. I will always cherish my interactions with him.”

 

~ Narendra Modi,

Prime Minister of India,

India – February 5th, 2025

 

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Ireland

“As spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims and a dedicated philanthropist, the Aga Khan made an exceptional contribution across his life to the causes of education, health and development across the world.

 

The Aga Khan will of course be particularly remembered in Ireland for his deep connection with the sports of horse racing and showjumping, including his family’s long connection to the Aga Khan Trophy which is competed for each year during the Dublin Horse Show.

 

I was pleased to welcome the Aga Khan to Áras an Uachtaráin in 2018, when we had the opportunity to discuss the importance of supporting sustainable development and the strengthening of civil society to improve the quality of life of poor and marginalised communities.

 

As I noted on that occasion, at a time when many affect an indifference towards suffering, the Aga Khan endeavoured to address the root causes of conflict, promoting inter-cultural dialogue, pluralism, and the advancement of the status of women.”

 

~ Michael Daniel Higgins,

9th President of Ireland (2011+),

Dublin, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

 

“It’s our view that the Aga Khan [Trophy] is the greatest trophy in our sport …

 

We said at the beginning of the year this was one of the shows we are bringing our “A” team.

 

There is no feeling like winning the Nations Cup [Aga Khan Trophy].”

 

~ Robert Ridland, Team USA chef d’equipe & Lillie Keenan, US team rider,

at the 144th Dublin Horse Show,

Dublin, Ireland – August 11th, 2017

 

“The Aga Khan’s values of pluralism, multiculturalism, and strengthening civil society, are those we must emulate.”

 

~ Dr. Mary Robinson,

7th President of Ireland (1990-7),

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (1997-2002),

presenting the Andrew Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy,

Scotland – October 14th, 2005

 

“Maynooth University is saddened to learn of the death of the philanthropist and spiritual leader Prince Karim Aga Khan … The Aga Khan was the 49th hereditary imam of the Ismaili Muslims, tracing his lineage directly to the Prophet Muhammad.

 

He was also the founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), one of the largest private development groups in the world, and who had close ties to the University.

 

MU recognised the Aga Khan’s significant achievements when it awarded him an honorary law doctorate in 2008 for:

 

“outstanding contributions to the elimination of global poverty, the advancement of women, the promotion of Islamic culture and the furthering of pluralistic values in society.”

 

It extends sincere condolences to his family and friends, including his daughter Princess Zahra Aga Khan, who visited MU last year to sign a strategic partnership agreement between The Aga Khan University and MU, the first of its kind with an Irish university.

 

The Aga Khan was also a leading owner and breeder of race horses and was heavily involved in the Irish horse racing industry. He owned a number of stud farms across the country and bred Shergar, once the most famous and most valuable racehorse in the world.”

 

~ Maynooth University,

National University of Ireland,

Maynooth, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“With these awards, we celebrate something more profound than achievements and investments.

 

His Highness the Aga Khan is not just a valued partner of the Irish racing community; he is one of us.

 

We feel that he is part of the very fabric of our industry, and we have claimed him as one of our own.

 

We are forever grateful for all His Highness has done for Irish horse racing. The Aga Khan’s impact on Irish racing is “unparalleled.”

 

His vision, dedication, and generosity has enriched our sport and strengthened our community in ways that will endure for generations.”

 

~ Nicky Hartery,

Chairman, Horse Racing Ireland,

during the Horse Racing Ireland Contribution to the Industry Award presentation,

Curragh, County Kildare, Ireland – December 4th, 2024

 

“His Highness was an iconic figure in the global racing industry. He was recognised the world over as a champion breeder and a champion owner and he made his mark in many countries with Ireland playing a significant role in his family’s renowned operation for over 100 years.

 

On so many levels, Irish racing and breeding will forever be in his debt.

 

We were honoured to present His Highness with Horse Racing Ireland’s Contribution to the Industry Award last December.

 

We hope that recognition went some way towards acknowledging his immense contribution, wonderful generosity and unwavering support of our industry for so many years.”

 

~ Suzanne Eade,

Chief Executive,

Horse Racing Ireland,

Curragh, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“The Board and staff of the Curragh Racecourse were saddened to learn of the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan.

 

He was an inspirational man who contributed to the Irish horse racing and breeding industries in so many ways, not least as the driving force behind the redevelopment of the Curragh Racecourse which he jointly opened with An Taoiseach in 2019.

 

The main grandstand here is named in his honour.

 

On the track at the Curragh, he enjoyed Irish Classic success eleven times, including six memorable Irish Derby wins with Shergar, Shahrastani, Kahyasi, Sinndar, Alamshar and Harzand.”

 

~ The Curragh Racecourse,

Curragh, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“The Aga Khan was a passionate owner and breeder of thoroughbreds.

 

As a driving force behind the Curragh’s redevelopment, the Aga Khan brought a vision of a world-class facility that would honour the rich heritage of Irish racing.

 

While words cannot capture the full impact which the Aga Khan has had on Irish racing, we take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will endure.

 

The Aga Khan Stand, which overlooks the Curragh racecourse, will stand as a lasting tribute to his passion, generosity, and the vision he had for the sport.

 

His influence will continue to be felt here for many years to come, ensuring that his dedication to racing, both at the Curragh and globally, will not be forgotten.

 

Our deepest condolences to his family and all who loved him.

 

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”

 

~ Brian Kavanagh,

Chief Executive of the Curragh,

former CEO, Horse Racing Ireland,

Curragh, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“On behalf of the Board of Goffs, Group Chief Executive Henry Beeby and the management and staff of the Company, I would like to express our sincerest sympathies to the family of His Highness the Aga Khan on his very sad passing. We also send our deepest condolences to the Ismaili community throughout the world.

 

His Highness was a wonderful man who made an enormous contribution, not just to the bloodstock industry but to the wider world through his philanthropy and humanitarian work.

 

As the shareholder of reference, his unwavering support and investment in Goffs over many decades, has provided Ireland with a world class auction house to market and sell Irish thoroughbreds globally.

 

On a personal level, I am deeply grateful for his support, his courtesy, guidance and inspiration.

 

A truly remarkable man, may he rest in peace.”

 

~ Eimear Mulhern,

Goffs Chairman,

Fethard, County Tipperary, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“His Highness was a truly inspirational person who gave so much to so many different people and areas of life.

 

As Goffs shareholder of reference, his unwavering support and investment in the company over many decades has provided Ireland with a world-class auction house to market and sell Irish thoroughbreds globally, and much of what we do would not have been possible without his backing.

 

He was generous with his time, wisdom and advice, especially to Eimer [Mulher, Chairman] and me in recent years, and was also a major vendor with so many of his incredible bloodlines at several sales each year.

 

A truly remarkable man, may he rest in peace.”

 

~ Henry Beeby,

Goffs Chief Executive,

Fethard, County Tipperary, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“It’s obviously a day of reflection. We have some great memories of some wonderful horses, but also of working for a truly great man.

 

He was gracious when he won and he was gracious when he didn’t and it’s something I personally always admired, the manner in which he faced victory and defeat.

 

Gracious is exactly the right word.

 

I became very aware over the years spending time with him that one of the things that he was proudest of was the generations of his family, going back to his grandfather, [and] that the operation has survived and thrived.

 

And we’d like to think it’s in a very good place today, because of him and the way he guided us to look after the things that he felt were most important to the longevity of the operation, which was completely through the broodmares. He always felt they were the core from which everything else came – our brief was always to look after the broodmares and the families.

 

[Princess] Zahra has been involved for as long as I’ve been here and she is very passionate about the business as well.

 

She too shares that sense of history and longevity and she too is very proud of where the operation is today – and we certainly look forward and hope to continue in the same vein.”

 

~ Pat Downes,

Manager of the Aga Khan Irish Studs for 27 years,

Gilltown, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“He was an easy man to train for, he was always realistic, his geese were never swans.

 

He had hopes, of course, like every owner and breeder. He hoped for a top horse every year, but there were plenty of years he didn’t have top horses, like everybody, but he always expected that. He was hopeful rather than expectant.

 

To be that successful over decades takes an awful lot of effort. It is very difficult and not many people can keep at it for that long.

 

It wasn’t by accidents.”

 

~ John Oxx,

Aga Khan Studs Trainer,

Gilltown, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“It has been a great honour and pleasure to train for His Highness and we enjoyed many great days together.

 

We won 10 major Group 1 races in four countries and were successful in classic races, like Epsom Derby, Irish Derby and Epsom Oaks, which were obviously so important to him as one of the world’s most influential and  successful breeders of thoroughbreds.

 

I was also fortunate to train three champions for him, including Harzand, who was the champion three-year-old colt in Ireland. Tahiyra, also a classic winner at three, who was the two-year-old champion filly of Europe, and Tarnawa, who was the joint highest-rated older filly in the world after winning the Prix Vermeille and the Breeders’ Cup Turf and who was only beaten half a length in the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

 

He took great interest in all of his horses and played not just a huge part in my career but left an indelible mark on the sport and the breeding industry.

 

He will be very much missed by all of us.”

 

~ Dermont Weld,

Aga Khan Studs Trainer,

Gilltown, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“I have fond memories riding for His Highness the Aga Khan and we had some great days together. It was a privilege to ride in those silks and more recently to be a part of the team of trainers.

 

Of all the great days we had together, I suppose Sinndar winning the Derby was up there with the best of them because that race meant a great deal to His Highness. To go on to win the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe on Sinndar was another special day.

 

We’ve enjoyed some success for His Highness since we started training, notably when Shartash won the Railway Stakes at the Curragh.

 

It’s just a very sad day for racing.

 

He made a massive contribution to Irish racing in particular and played a massive role in my career as a rider and a trainer.”

 

~ Johnny Murtagh,

Aga Khan Studs Rider & Trainer,

Gilltown, County Kildare, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

 

“His Highness the Aga Khan – A true visionary and breeder extraordinaire.

 

European racing will be forever in your debt. RIP.”

 

~ Coolmore Stud,

world’s largest breeding operation of thoroughbred racehorses,

Fethard, County Tipperary, Ireland – February 5th, 2025

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Italy

President Alessandra Todde, in agreement with the Council, declared a regional day of mourning on February 6, 2025 throughout Sardinia as a sign of respect on the passing of Prince Karim Aga Khan, honorary citizen of Arzachena and Olbia and creator of the Costa Smeralda.

“Not only has the loss of such an important person as His Highness Karim Aga Khan been painful even today, which has in fact brought a sense of dismay to our hearts and minds, but also of loss.

 

We are ready to continue the work begun by the Prince, who is an honorary citizen of Olbia , as well as Arzachena.

 

With his extraordinary vision and his immense love for the area, Prince Karim Aga Khan, the founder and creator of the Costa Smeralda, built a model of tourism that has gained international fame; a system that has led to social and economic change for the entire community, and that represents an important chapter in the history of Arzachena, Gallura and the entire Sardinian region.

 

The Prince represents an extraordinary figure, capable of giving life to the birth and development of the tourism sector in full respect of the environmental protection of the Gallura territory.”

 

~ Settimo Nizzi, Mayor of Olbia,

representing Municipalities of Arzachena and Olbia,

Olbia, Sardinia, Italy  – February 5th, 2025

 

“Consorzio Costa Smeralda and Smeralda Holding fondly celebrates the memory of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, and offers Princess Zahra and the entire family its most heartfelt and profound condolences.

 

With his extraordinary vision and his immense love for the area, Karim Aga Khan, the founder and creator of the Costa Smeralda, built a model of tourism that has gained international fame; a system that has led to social and economic change for the entire community, and that represents an important chapter in the history of Arzachena, Gallura and the entire Sardinian region.

 

At the end of the Fifties, when he was little more than twenty, he conceived an enlightened plan, and March 14, 1962 saw the inauguration of Porto Cervo, which soon became one of the most significant tourist destinations in the world, a role that it continues to maintain to this day.

 

Created from scratch, with the active collaboration of all the institutions, the community was provided with all the infrastructure required to render the Costa Smeralda a dream destination for travelers from all over the world, while at the same time preserving the beauty of the area.

 

The Costa Smeralda Consortium and Smeralda Holding have embraced the commitment to continue, with its constant efforts, to carry forward all that the Aga Khan set in motion.

 

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Municipalities of Arzachena and Olbia for having proclaimed town-wide mourning.”

 

~ Consorzio Costa Smeralda and Smeralda Holding,

Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, Italy  – February 5th, 2025

“We take this opportunity to remember with deep admiration and respect our Founder and President, HH the Aga Khan.

 

Through the YCCS and from its very foundation, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan promoted values of excellence, innovation, passion for the sea, respect for the environment, and support for the next generation.

 

His vision established the YCCS as an organisation of excellence and international prominence, and we will continue to uphold the principles promoted by His Highness, honouring his memory.”

 

~ YCCS Commodore, Andrea Recordati,

Milan, Italy – March 6th, 2025

 

“… my long adventure in the company of the prince, lasted more than 50 years.

 

The Aga Khan was only 8 years older than me at that time, but had a very determined vision with clear plans about the future.

 

He was a visionary as well as a pragmatic man.

 

He knew how to interact with the best professionals in every sector, but also to train those who would be left in charge of the project in the future and had a close connection to this land. Just like me.

 

During a period of hiatus at work on the coast he suggested that I go to United States and take a Degree of Master of Architecture in Urban Design at Harvard University, just like he had done. And so I left.

 

I faced many difficulties but the Prince always supported me, not only financially but also psychologically.

 

It was one of his qualities: he knew how to take care of everything and everyone. It was not a way to control people, but rather a sense of participation and belonging.

 

My relationship with the Prince was very impactful and important for me from a professional and human point of view.

 

Thanks to him, I had the opportunity to work with the best architects in the world: in Sardinia with Jacques Coüelle, Savin Coüelle, Michele and Giancarlo Busiri Vici, Luigi Vietti, and Antonio Simon Mossa, but also with other professionals of various sectors such as environmental science, real estate, and tourism. I also travelled a lot because of him: I have been to Europe, United States, the Caribbean and Asia.

 

I worked for Sasaki in Boston, the largest landscape architecture firm in the United States. All of this was a great opportunity for professional development, and in particular, I learnt to have great respect for the landscape that had inspired Prince Karim.

 

From a human point of view, his natural empathy with everyone, not just his peers, and the need to research and learn before each new project was an example for me. And last but not least, his rigour, which was not strictness but extreme moral integrity.”

 

~ Enzo Satta,

Vice President,

Costa Smeralda Architectural Committee,

Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, Italy – April 23rd, 2025

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Japan

“The Prince was one of the best owners who ever lived and his passing is a big loss for horse racing in general.

 

As a breeder and owner of Thoroughbreds, the influence of the bloodlines he merged and evolved is perhaps unsurpassed by any other owner-breeder of the last 60 years.

 

His breeding farms and his ownership, his whole operation was one of the most important in the industry, and, as for himself, in the context of the industry, he was like a living ‘god’ in horse racing and his aura and his charisma were very important for the whole industry.

 

For me to be his retained jockey and to wear the green and red colours was a rare privilege. I was very proud to be one of his jockeys because every victory had a special taste, especially in the Group 1 races when His Highness was in the winners’ circle, it was quite special.

 

His stature and his charisma, his aura, it was very impressive to be in front of him having a discussion with him: he always had the words to make you comfortable, and in that way he was friendly when you had a conversation with him, but with all the respect he deserved.

 

But he was always listening to the people and looked like he always had something to learn from others; even with his great experience he was always listening to his jockey afterwards. Of course, he did his own analysis and took his own decisions, but he was really somebody nice to work with and even every meeting with him was special; it was always a great time, so today I feel very sad because we have lost someone who is a legend of horse racing.”

 

~ Christophe Lemaire,

Japan’s Champion Jockey,

Aga Khan Studs Rider (2009-13),

Tokyo, Japan – February 7th, 2025

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Kazakhstan

“… distinguished contribution to strengthening peace and friendship with mutual confidence amongst peoples and for vigourous activity aimed at the solution of humanitarian problems.”

 

~ Nursultan Nazarbayev,

President of Kazakhstan,

State Award for Peace and Progress citation,

Astana, Kazakhstan, December 17th, 2002

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Kenya

“We are saddened by the passing of The Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of Ismaili Muslims.

 

He was an extraordinary leader who went beyond what seemed [possible] to help the vulnerable – through his charities in hospitals and schools.”

 

~ William Samoei Ruto,

5th President of Kenya (2022+),

Nairobi, Kenya – February 5th, 2025

 

“The Aga Khan was more than just a friend. He was like a brother, a confidant and a partner in the mission to uplift the lives of many.

 

Our shared dedication to education, healthcare and making the world a better place created a partnership that lasted for years.

 

His visionary leadership in the healthcare sector has saved countless lives.

 

The Aga Khan University Hospital and its network of facilities remain a testament to his enduring legacy of compassion and excellence.

 

We worked together on numerous projects in the education sector. His ability to bring people together for a common cause was truly remarkable.

 

As we say goodbye to this incredible man, let’s recall his strong faith in humanity’s potential for greatness. The positive impact he had on so many lives will ensure his legacy endures.”

 

~ Uhuru Kenyatta,

4th President of Kenya (2013-22),

Nairobi, Kenya – February 5th, 2025

 

“His Highness Prince Mawlana Shah Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV, has exited the world at a time of much uncertainty and anxiety; just when we needed his wisdom, tolerance, empathy, and moral leadership the most.

 

His death is a heavy blow to the community of good deeds, compassionate humanitarianism, and works of faith.

 

As a country, Kenya has benefitted significantly from Aga Khan’s works and investment in human welfare, which will certainly live long since he is gone.

 

Our prayers and thoughts are with the millions around the world who looked up to him for spiritual guidance and physical well-being.

 

I express my deepest condolences to His Highness’s family and the Ismaili community worldwide.”

 

~ Raila Odinga,

Kenya’s AUC Candidate,

2nd Prime Minister of Kenya (2008-13)

Nairobi, Kenya – February 5th, 2025

 

“I first met His Highness when I served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

 

It was during this time that Kenya granted diplomatic recognition to the mainly philanthropic work by the Aga Khan.

 

The establishment of the Aga Khan Development Network which is a major development aid network has since provided numerous benefits to the country.”

 

~ Kalonzo Musyoka,

Wiper Leader,

Kenya’s former Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,

Nairobi, Kenya – February 5th, 2025

 

“In 1908, against the backdrop of the colonial Fraser Report establishing a discriminatory education system based on race, and in its implementation where more resources were allocated to the European schools over Asian and African schools, that the Ismaili community founded the first multiracial education centre in Mombasa in 1918. It was precisely  to dismantle an education system that segregated learners on their skin colour. This became the present-day Aga Khan Primary School in Kizingo, Mombasa. Earlier, across the Zanzibar Islands, His Highness Sir Sultan Muhammed Shah Aga Khan III had established girls’ schools principally to promote gender education.

 

The entry of the Ismaili community and principally His Highness the Aga Khan changed the trajectory of education in East Africa and the rest of the continent. Upon ascending to the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims in 1957, His Highness [Prince Karim] Aga Khan [IV] undertook to promote education in Africa and other parts of the world as a tool for social transformation and realisation of civil liberties.

 

His vision of education converged with that of the Africans fighting for political liberation from the colonial domination, and whose focus, among others, was to equip Africans with cognitive skills and other competencies to enable them to participate in governance and decision-making and take charge of their destiny.

 

It is not lost that as part of His Highness’s contribution to the African liberation struggle in Kenya was the establishment of a newspaper, Taifa Leo in 1959 and later Daily Nation in 1960, to offer a voice for the African freedom fighters. Indeed, quality and liberating education was instrumental in that crusade.

 

With Kenya’s independence in 1963 and the outcome of the 1964 Ominde Commission to eliminate discrimination in education based on race or religion and the creation of a unified education that became the country’s standard practice to date, His Highness’s vision of non-racial education came to pass.

 

In one of his endearing statements, His Highness remarked that university education should aim to expand “the frontiers of scientific and humanistic knowledge, radiate intelligence and confidence, promote research, and create flourishing economies and progressive legal and political systems.”

 

Looking at his contribution to higher education, that vision remains true and serves as a guiding light into the future.

 

When the history of education of East Africa is finally documented, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV will certainly earn the pride of place.

 

~ David Aduda,

Consulting Editor & Education Specialist,

Nation Media Group,

Nairobi, Kenya – February 9th, 2025

 

“I am convinced that the Aga Khan’s extraordinary accomplishments, in a blessed long life, lived without a single allegation of wrongdoing, emerged out of a God-given capacity, utterly rare among leaders, to blend his spiritual, intellectual and temporal passions.

 

These were pivotal to his “felp calling” of serving Islam, Africa and the ancient Shi’a Ismaili community he led, which traces its lineage directly from the Prophet Mohammed, and the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, Caliph Ali ibn Abi Talib, whom the Shi’a consider the first Imam. His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV was the 49th Imam, and in his will, he designated his son Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini as the 50th hereditary Imam, and will formally be known as Aga Khan V.

 

The place of Islam in the Global Village was central to the late Aga Khan’s fulfillment. As I wrote almost two decades ago, he will forever remain one of the world’s best-known exemplars of Islam’s core values of peace, compassion and inclusion. The Aga Khan also embodied its ecumenical orientation to engage with all peace believing groups, a goal which this charismatic, dashing and steeped-in-knowledge leader was easily able to achieve.

 

He saw these qualities symbolically and visually captured in Islamic architecture, for which he endowed the renowned Islamic Architecture Programme at Harvard University.

 

His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s record of service to humanity has few equals in the world. n the 1960s, his genius and innovations made ground-breaking advances in providing some of the most crucially needed services in the newly independent African countries. While early programmes focused on services to his community, he was rapidly able to expand these life-enhancing interventions to wider populations. In the process, he was able to to imbue his community with politically nationalistic goals, and a global, entrepreneurship culture. He ended up creating a whole new cadre of brilliant progressive technocrats, whose successes in turn inspired the Prince Karim Aga Khan to ever more ambitius economic and social goals. Leaders of course achieve only what their followers deliver.

 

These successes were underpinned by the Aga Khan’s principal responsibility of protecting both spiritual and physical wellbeing of his community. I am not aware of any other similarly large group in Africa which has created a strong safety net that has virtually wiped out poverty among its members, and at the same time provided vital health and educational services to millions of others.

 

The Aga Khan has sometimes been criticised for focusing too strongly on financial enterprise. He explained early on that an Imam was “not expected to withdraw from everyday life. he’s expected to protect his community and contribute to their quality of life. The divide between faith and the world is foreign to Islam.”

 

The Aga Khan Development Network’s services to East Africans are legion, in health and education in particular. His starting Nation Media in the run-up to independence was a prescient initiative, as the two largest newspapers then, The Standard and the Sunday Post, held sway with their representing essentially settler views.

 

But for me personally, what has captivated me most was the Aga Khan’s commitment to Islamic Architecture’s revival, which he established at Harvard University as a full Programme.

 

I first felt its magic in the mid-1970s at the newly opened Serena Beach Hotel in Mombasa, which was designed to replicate a traditional Coast Swahili village, abetted by a stunning setting on the Indian Ocean. I had never realised one could feel proud when staying at a hotel! It’s still among the most beautiful small hotels in the world.

 

Other Serena hotels, especially those in the Gilgit and Skardu towns in Himalayan Pakistan, which are the ancestral homes of the Aga Khans, all have dramatic regional aura and settings.

 

Thank you, Your Highness!”

 

~ Salim Lone,

Journalist & former Advisor (2007-13, 2017-8) to

Kenya’s Prime Minister Raila Odinga (2008-13),

Editor of UNSG Boutros Boutros-Ghali’s books

on the Rwanda and Yugoslavia tribunals,

Director of Communications under UNSG Kofi Annan (1998-2003),

Nairobi, Kenya – February 10th, 2025

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Kyrgyzstan

“The Danaker is a mark of honour awarded to individuals who unite people, nations and countries.

 

… You belong to a number of eminent personalities, whose life and work is a manifestation of noble efforts in overcoming difficulties to address socio-economic problems, improve the living conditions of the most vulnerable layers of the population.

 

On behalf of the people of Kyrgyzstan, and in my personal capacity, I would like to express sincere gratitude for the contributions and support Your Highness has been providing through AKDN in a variety of sectors including education, healthcare, agriculture and others.”

 

~ His Excellency Almazbek Atambayev,

President of the Kyrgyz Republic,

at the investiture ceremony of the Order of Danaker,

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan  – October 18th, 2016

 

“I received with deep sorrow the sad news of the death of your father, the esteemed Prince Karim Aga Khan. I express my sincere condolences to you, your family and loved ones.

 

Prince Karim Aga Khan dedicated his life to a noble cause — development of education, healthcare and the social sphere, bringing hope and opening up new opportunities for millions of people around the world.

 

His humane and merciful deeds, as well as the values ​​of compassion and virtue will remain an example for future generations.

 

I share your grief and wish you strength, fortitude and patience in this difficult time. May the earth rest lightly on him.”

 

~ His Excellency Sadyr Japarov,

President of the Kyrgyz Republic,

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan – February 5th, 2025

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Malaysia

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness The Aga Khan.

 

A visionary leader, philanthropist, and tireless advocate for progress, His Highness dedicated his life to uplifting communities through education, healthcare, cultural preservation, and economic development. His unwavering commitment transformed lives and landscapes, ensuring that tradition and modernity coexist in harmony.

 

His Highness’ dedication to heritage conservation and urban regeneration has left a lasting impact across the world. His leadership through the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) has revitalised historic landmarks and public spaces, breathing new life into cities while strengthening communities. Think City has been privileged to share in this vision, working alongside AKTC to advance cultural preservation and sustainable urban development.

 

In George Town, his support for projects such as Fort Cornwallis, the North Seafront, and Armenian Park has fostered community-driven growth and championed sustainable design. His legacy endures in cities that now flourish with a deeper connection to their heritage, setting a lasting foundation for how we safeguard our shared cultural history.

 

We will remember His Highness for his wisdom, generosity, and extraordinary contributions to Malaysia and the world.

 

His vision will continue to inspire all those committed to the preservation of culture and the built environment.”

 

~ Think City,

George Town, Malaysia – February 5th, 2025

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Mozambique

“Prince Karim Aga Khan leaves a remarkable legacy, not only through his work and dedication to the Foundation, but also through the positive impact on the lives of many people.

 

The Mozambican people are witnesses to the various works of his Foundation in the areas of health and education, which have contributed to the socio-economic development of our country, which has given greater human dignity to several families

 

Prince Karim Aga Khan will always be remembered, above all, for his commitment to promoting education, health and social progress – values that transcended borders and benefited countless peoples, including our own, through the Aga Khan Development Network, as a promoter of solidarity and inclusion, which will continue to inspire generations.

 

At this difficult time, the Mozambican people join in the mourning of the family and the Aga Khan Foundation and pay tribute to a life so well lived.

 

Therefore, on behalf of the Mozambican people, the Government of the Republic of Mozambique and in my own name, this Mozambican statesman offers his condolences to the Aga Khan’s family, the Ismaili Community and all those who have been impacted by his mission to serve humanity.

 

We pray that Prince Aga Khan’s example of leadership and philanthropy will continue to light the way to a more just and harmonious world.

 

Indeed his departure is an irreparable loss, but his memory and his achievements will remain a source of inspiration for us all.”

 

~ Daniel Chapo,

President of Mozambique,

Maputo, Mozambique – February 5th, 2025

 

“The relationship between Mozambique and the Aga Khan Network is long-standing and very positive.

 

They were with us even in the worst moments of our history.

 

The network was always with Mozambique.

 

Especially when terrorism began in Cabo Delgado, they were among the few who remained on the ground, carrying out their activities and supporting the population. They continue to this day.

 

We are sad and have already expressed our condolences”

 

~ Benvinda Levi,

Prime Minister of Mozambique,

former Justice Minister (2008-15),

former adviser to President Filipe Nyusi,

Maputo, Mozambique – February 5th, 2025

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Pakistan

The Government of Pakistan declared February 8th, 2025 as the day of national mourning on the occasion of the funeral of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. Pakistani flag will remain on half-mast in the country and at Pakistan Missions abroad.

Similarly, Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Haji Gulbar Khan, and the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan have announced three days of mourning (February 5th to 7th). During this period, the national flag will remain at half-mast on all government buildings across Gilgit-Baltistan. Additionally, the Chief Minister has declared February 6th as a public holiday in honour of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

“I join the Ismaili community in mourning the colossal loss from the passing away of Prince Karim Aga Khan.

 

A man of vision, faith and generosity, his enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations.

 

His contributions transcended borders, bringing hope and progress to communities in need.

 

He was a remarkable leader whose life was dedicated to uplifting communities across the world.

 

Through his tireless efforts in poverty alleviation, healthcare, and gender equality, he championed the cause of the marginalized, leaving an indelible mark on countless lives.”

 

~ Shehbaz Sharif,

Prime Minster of Islamic Republic of Pakistan,

Islamabad, Pakistan – February 5th, 2025

 

“Deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

 

His unwavering dedication to philanthropy and the betterment of communities worldwide has left an indelible mark on the world.

 

His special attachment to Pakistan and his matchless contribution to the development and progress of its people can never be forgotten. Pakistan mourns his loss and cherishes his inspiring legacy.

 

My heartfelt condolences to his family and the global Ismaili community.”

 

~ Muhammad Ishaq Dar,

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan,

Islamabad, Pakistan – February 5th, 2025

 

“I pass on my deepest condolences to HH Prince Karim Aga Khan’s family and loved ones.

 

May his soul rest in peace.

 

His legacy will continue to live on through the incredible work he led for education, health and development around the world.”

 

~ Malala Yousafzai,

Honorary Canadian Citizen (2014),

Nobel Peace Prize Laureate (2014),

Birmingham, England, February 5th, 2025

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Portugal

“Prince Karim Al-Husseini, whom I had the honour of knowing well, was a good friend of Portugal. He left his mark on his life by working tirelessly to promote human dignity and protect the most disadvantaged.

 

Under his leadership, the Aga Khan Development Network has carried out extraordinary and multifaceted work, making a fundamental contribution to global human development for decades, bringing tangible improvements to the social conditions of thousands upon thousands of people on several continents.

 

His Highness the Aga Khan also established himself as a notable figure of faith open to the world, under the sign of tolerance and profound respect for others, and his work in supporting culture, the arts and education was equally notable.”

 

~ Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa,

Portugal’s 20th President (2016+),

Lisbon, Portugal – February 4th, 2025

 

“It is with deep regret that the Portuguese Government mourns the death of Prince Aga Khan, Imam of the Ismaili Shia Muslim Community.

 

His personality and work will remain forever in the memory of the Portuguese.

 

My deepest condolences to his Highness’ family and the Ismaili community around the world.”

 

~ Luis Montenegro,

Prime Minister of Portugal,

Lisbon, Portugal – February 5th, 2025

 

“Not only have you been, since 1957, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the 49th Imam of the Ismailis and thus the religious leader of a community, the Ismaili Community, that the Portuguese Nation learned to regard with such high esteem, but in the exercise of your exalted office, you have displayed an outstanding talent as a statesman, a diplomat and an organizer, besides being a man of faith and culture.”

 

~ Professor Arantes e Oliveira,

President of the Academy of Sciences,

at the Investiture Ceremony of

His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

as a Foreign Member of the Academy of Sciences of Lisbon,

Lisbon, Portugal – May 8th, 2009

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Qatar

“Qatar joins the global community in mourning the death of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslims and founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).

 

The Aga Khan played a pivotal role in shaping Qatar’s cultural and artistic identity. His dedication left a lasting mark on the architectural and artistic landscape of Qatar and the world.

 

Through the institutions he supported and the knowledge he nurtured, his passion for cultural understanding and development continues to inspire generations.

 

In November 2024, Qatar Museums (QM) and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) signed a significant cooperation agreement to advance heritage conservation, arts education, vocational training, and urban regeneration. This partnership aims to protect and celebrate cultural heritage both within Qatar and on the international scene.

 

Our condolences to his family.”

 

~ Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani,

sister of Qatar’s ruling Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani,

Chairperson of Qatar Museums,

Doha, Qatar – February 6th, 2025

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Russia

“Your Highness,

 

Friends,

 

Welcome to Moscow.

 

I would like to begin by saying that on July 11 we will mark 60 years of your mission as the Spiritual Leader and Imam of the Nizari Ismailis.

 

You are a good friend who often visits us.

 

We highly appreciate your views on Afghanistan and also on many other modern issues.

 

We treasure your sagacious and wise views as you are a man with great experience.

 

We see that your actions are guided not only by a desire to protect the interests of Ismailis around the world, but also to help settle the acute international issues that have been accumulating for the past decade.

 

We hope to have a useful meeting.

 

I am happy to see you.”

 

~ Sergei Lavrov,

Russia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs,

Moscow, Russia – April 20th, 2017

 

“… we need the Aga Khan [more] than he needs us …

 

The fact that the Russian authorities invited the Aga Khan to Moscow is a significant event.

 

Apparently Russia recognizes his role as supreme authority who can influence the course of events in the region.”

 

~ Andrey Dubnov,

Russian expert on Central Asia,

Moscow, Russia – April 20th, 2017

 

“On behalf of the Religious Board of Muslims of the Russian Federation and on my own behalf, I express my deep condolences to all Shia Ismaili brothers on the passing away of His Highness Prince Karim Shah Shah Aga Khan IV, a direct descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

 

Our first meeting with His Highness took place back in 1995 at the Moscow Cathedral Mosque, and in 2019, his visit to Tatarstan to present the ‘Aga Khan International Prize for Architecture 2019’ took place.

 

The late Karim Shah Aga Khan IV repeatedly said that he saw Russia as a friend and ally of the Islamic world.

 

We share the pain of the family, associates and loved ones of the late Karim Shah Aga Khan IV and pray that Almighty Allah accepts the many good deeds and charity of His Highness and rewards them from His infinite mercy with Gardens of Paradise.

 

Verily, we all belong to Allah and to Him is our return.”

 

~ Chief Mufti Sheikh Ravil Gainutdin,

Chairman of the Religious Board of Muslims of the Russian Federation,

Moscow, Russia – February 5th, 2025

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South Africa

“As we mourn the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan, Mawlana Shah Karim Al-Hussaini, a radiant soul who embodied wisdom, compassion, and selfless service, we pay tribute to his profound and inspiring leadership.

 

His life was a blessing to humanity, guiding many toward unity and enlightenment.

 

May the Divine grant strength to his followers in this time of sorrow.

 

His legacy of love and light will continue to inspire generations.”

 

~ Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj,

Guru and President of the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS),

Johannesburg, South Africa – February 5th, 2025

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Switzerland

“Through his building programmes and the Aga Khan Award, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims was an important champion of architecture.

 

And in the realm of global leadership, few voices have been as consistent and compelling in championing the transformative power of architecture as His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

 

His perspective on architecture transcended mere aesthetics, positioning it as a fundamental force in shaping human experience, preserving cultural identity and fostering societal progress.

 

There is no other discipline in the world that touches all levels of society – from leaders to commoners – and has a more direct impact on the quality of life of every individual than architecture.

 

His engagement with architecture started with building schools and health facilities in the most remote places in Asia and Africa, as well as creating high-quality projects in the developing world. He saw the lack of dialogue and understanding between the various parties involved in projects, and tried to reach his development goals through promoting research, dialogue and identifying examples of excellence.

 

In the 1970s, he embarked on some major projects, including the Ismaili Centre opposite the V&A in South Kensington, designed by Hugh Casson, and the Aga Khan University and Hospital in Karachi, by Tom Payette. In 1977 he established the Aga Khan Award for Architecture which became an important voice in expanding the understanding of architectural discourse of the time, championing the social and community side of architecture – today an increasingly integral part of the discipline.

 

The 15 winners of the initial 1980 awards juxtaposed conservation, slum upgrading, engineering, heritage and contemporary architecture, and advanced technology, representing a plurality of approaches. This was complemented by other activities, including the establishment of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at MIT and Harvard – where Aga Khan IV had himself studied after early schooling in Switzerland.

 

The award – now in its 16th triennial cycle – has continued to promote new realities of architecture from different parts of the world. Engagement in preserving neglected historic urban centres and in creating new urban spaces led to the formation of the Aga Khan Historic Cities Programme, which has implemented iconic projects in many cities including the Al-Azhar Park in Cairo, Humayoun’s tomb complex in Delhi, and the Babur Gardens in Kabul.

 

Going through the list of architects and others involved in the various programmes listed above, one notices that most of the leading architects of the late 20th and early 21st centuries have been involved in various capacities, whether as award jurors, steering committee members, winners, teachers or practitioners, and each contributed to the cause of making a better built environment, so central to Aga Khan IV’s vision.

 

To take just a few examples, Fumihiko Maki designed three projects for him, including the Aga Khan Centre in King’s Cross, London, while Arata Isozaki designed universities in central Asia. Henning Larsen designed a headquarters for the Nation Media Group in Kenya – one of the numerous enterprises established by Aga Khan IV around the world (the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network alone have annual expenditures of around $1 billion). Bruno Freschi and Charles Correa were responsible for Ismaili Centres in Canada, and Raj Rewal delivered one in Lisbon, Portugal.

 

 

All testified that his vision led them to designing their projects in different ways to how they had worked with other clients. Another important project is to be completed later this year: the Ismaili Centre in Houston, USA, designed by Farshid Moussavi Architecture with engineer Hanif Kara of AKT II.

 

For Aga Khan IV the essence of architecture was deeply intertwined with the concept of pluralism. He believed in architecture as a powerful medium for intercultural exchange and understanding. ‘We shape our built environment – and then our buildings shape us,’ he was fond of saying, expressing the sentiment that architecture is not a passive backdrop but an active participant in the human story.

 

During his lifetime, Aga Khan IV offered a compelling blueprint for how architecture can address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, creating spaces that not only shelter but elevate the human spirit.”

 

~ Farrokh Derakhshani,

Director, Aga Khan Award for Architecture,

International Fellow, Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA),

Geneva, Switzerland – March 3rd, 2025

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Tajikistan

“Through his dedicated efforts to uphold peace and stability, promote progress and development in the Islamic world, and advance common development goals, the late Prince earned great respect on the international stage.

 

In this regard, I would like to highlight his contribution to fostering constructive cooperation with the Republic of Tajikistan.”

 

~ Emomali Rahmon,

President of the Republic of Tajikistan,

Dushanbe, Tajikistan – February 5th, 2025

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Tanzania

“For over twenty years, I have had the opportunity of meeting His Highness in my capacity as minister, president and now former president.

 

During my tenure as a trustee on the Board of the Aga Khan University, I closely got to know that his greatest gift to humanity is the recognition that we have to work together across national boundaries irrespective to gender, race, religion, or regions of the world.

 

For five years, I served on the Aga Khan University’s Board of Trustees.

 

I saw the passion of His Highness the Aga Khan and my fellow Board members for improving quality of life in Africa and Asia.

 

When they say the four pillars of AKU are quality, impact, access, and relevance, they mean it.

 

When they say they are committed to educating leaders who make a difference in the lives of others, they mean it.

 

Furthermore, the expansion of the Aga Khan Hospital demonstrates just how committed His Highness the Aga Khan is to investing in Tanzania and its people.”

 

~ Benjamin Mkapa,

President,

United Republic of Tanzania (1995-2005),

speaking at Aga Khan University’s 15th convocation,

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – February 5th, 2020

 

“On behalf of the Government and People of the United Republic of Tanzania, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to His Highness’ family, the Aga Khan Development Network and the Ismaili Muslim Community.

 

We join you in mourning the loss of a great leader and visionary, whose work has touched and transformed the lives of millions of people around the world.

 

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.”

 

~ Samia Suluhu,

President of the United Republic of Tanzania,

Dodoma, Tanzania – February 5th, 2025

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Timor-Leste

“The legacy of His Highness prince Karim Aga Khan transcends borders and generations.

 

His commitment to eradicating poverty, promoting education, strengthening public health, and valuing culture stands as a testament to his vision and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of humanity.

 

His tireless work through the Aga Khan Development Network will continue to inspire leaders and global citizens to follow in his footsteps in the pursuit of a more just, inclusive, and prosperous world.”

 

~ José Ramos-Horta,

President of the Republic,

Dili, Timor-Leste – February 10th, 2025

 

“His Highness the Aga Khan was an important figure, dedicating his life to improving the quality of life for the unfavorable groups around the world.

 

His death was a big loss to the world … [He] was a huge force for good in the world.”

 

~ Bendito dos Santos Freitas,

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation,

Dili, Timor-Leste – February 7th, 2025

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Uganda

“Mama Janet and myself were sorry and very sad to hear of the death of our friend, His Highness the Aga Khan.

 

Since I came into government, I had the opportunity to meet His Highness. He and his community have been very supportive to Uganda and other African countries.

 

I remember the good buildings that the community put up in Kampala, Dar es Salaam, and maybe Nairobi. They were called the IPS buildings.

 

At the age of 88, our friend still had value to contribute.

 

It is sad that he had to leave us. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

 

~ Yoweri K Museveni,

President of the Republic of Uganda,

Kampala, Uganda – February 5th, 2025

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Kingdom of Buganda

Buganda is a Bantu kingdom within Uganda. The kingdom of the Baganda people, Buganda is the largest of the traditional kingdoms in present-day East Africa, consisting of Uganda’s Central Region, including the Ugandan capital Kampala.

In 1967, Uganda’s first Prime Minister Milton Obote declared Uganda a republic, abolished all monarchs, parliament became the constituent assembly and later all political parties were outlawed, except UPC.

Since the restoration of the kingdom in 1993, the King of Buganda, known as the Kabaka, has been Muwenda Mutebi II. He is recognized as the 36th Kabaka of Buganda.

“His Highness the Aga Khan IV worked tirelessly to uphold human dignity and uplift communities across the world.

 

His efforts in the health and education sectors will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.

 

Under the leadership of the Aga Khan IV, the AKDN established several landmark institutions in Uganda.

 

These include the Aga Khan University, the Aga Khan Hospital in Kampala, and various education and entrepreneurship initiatives aimed at the underserved communities.

 

His commitment to inclusive development left a profound imprint on the country’s social fabric.

 

I congratulate Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, who has now assumed the mantle as Aga Khan V and pledge Buganda Kingdom’s continued cooperation with the Imamat, as this historical ties are rooted in the era of my father, Ssekabaka Edward Mutessa II and I reaffirm Buganda’s readiness to strengthen this long-standing relationship.”

 

~ Kabaka Ronald Mutebi,

36th Kabaka (King) of the Kingdom of Buganda,

Chancellor of Muteesa I Royal University (2011-6),

Mengo, Buganda – April 23rd, 2025

 

“Kabaka Commends the services of Aga Khan IV.

 

Omuteregga [King] sends his condolences to the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and Minister Israel Kazibwe Kitooke conveyed the King’s message to Mr. Amin Mawji OBE AKDN Representative in Uganda.”

 

~ Buganda’s mission in the UK & Ireland,

London, England – April 23rd, 2025

 

“We have learnt, with sadness, the demise of the Aga Khan, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, [at] 88.

 

The Kingdom of Buganda has cordial relations with the Ismail Community – in Uganda and abroad, for whom the Aga Khan is spiritual leader.

 

HM Kabaka Ronald Mutebi II has known and collaborated with the late Prince Al-Hussaini for years.

 

We appreciate the Aga Khan’s humanness, extending significant social services and economic initiatives in Uganda, and worldwide.

 

On behalf of the Kingdom of Buganda, and on my own behalf, I extend our condolences to the Prince’s family, the Ismail Community and the Aga Khan Foundation.”

 

~ Charles Peter Mayiga,

Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of the Kingdom of Buganda,

Mengo, Buganda – February 5th, 2025

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United Arab Emirates (UAE)

“We offer our condolences to the world’s Ismaili Muslims on the death of the Aga Khan.

 

He was not only a great leader for his people, but a true friend an equestrian who loved and understood horses deeply.

 

Above all, he stood as one of the world’s greatest philanthropists, whose life’s work was dedicated to relieving the hopelessness of poverty and promoting human development, building bridges between communities and working tirelessly in the cause of peace.”

 

~ His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum,

Ruler of Dubai,

Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE,

Founder of Godolphin,

Global Thoroughbred Breeding & Racing Team,

Dubai, UAE – February 5th, 2025

 

“It’s very difficult to overplay the impact of the Aga Khan in racing, and we have lost a true icon of the sport.

 

The success he enjoyed as an owner-breeder proved a great motivation to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, and racing played an important role in their enduring friendship.

 

Our thoughts go to his family and the Ismaili Muslim community during this difficult time.”

~ Hugh Anderson,

Managing Director of Godolphin, Dubai & UK,

Dubai, UAE – February 5th, 2025

 

“Godolphin is deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan at the age of 88.

 

One of the most influential figures in the history of horseracing, the Aga Khan was a titan of the sport as both an owner and a breeder. His green and red silks were synonymous with Champions of the turf, with Shergar, Shahrastani and Zarkava featuring among numerous outstanding horses over the past 65 years.

 

Daylami proved to be another Champion, winning the Poule d’Essai de Poulains in 1997 before being purchased by Godolphin at the end of his three-year-old season. He continued to showcase his brilliance as an older horse, posting six more top-level victories including the Eclipse Stakes, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Stakes and Irish Champion Stakes.

 

Crowned the world’s best racehorse, Daylami provided Godolphin with a first success at the Breeders’ Cup, easily taking the 1999 Breeders’ Cup Turf. His family’s influence continues to be witnessed at Godolphin, with half-brother Dalakhani a broodmare sire of current stallions Pinatubo and Tower Of London, both Champion racehorses themselves in Europe and Japan and now Darley stallions.

 

The impact of the Aga Khan’s meticulous management of bloodlines can also be seen with Too Darn Hot, who has made a superb start to his stallion career at Dalham Hall Stud. The son of Dubawi is a grandson of Darara, winner of the Prix Vermeille and part of a great family that includes Darshaan and Daliapour.

 

Godolphin has enjoyed great success with horses bred to the Aga Khan’s stallions. Brilliant miler Mark Of Esteem, a son of Darshaan, won the 2,000 Guineas and Queen Elizabeth Stakes during a sensational 1996 campaign. Mezzo Soprano, who was bred to the same stallion, graduated to G1 honours of her own in the 2003 Prix Vermeille.

 

Support for the Aga Khan’s Studs continues to this day, with Siyouni responsible for Marquisat, Beautiful Love and exciting three-year-old Verse Of Love, and Ottoman Fleet flying the flag for Gilltown resident Sea The Stars.

 

The Aga Khan provided significant backing to Darley stallions and two sons of Dubawi from illustrious families, Zarak and Erevann, currently stand at his studs. Brilliant racemares Tarnawa (Shamardal) and Ezeliya (Dubawi) have also shone for the operation in recent years.”

 

~ Godolphin,

Global Thoroughbred Breeding & Racing Team,

Australia, Ireland, Japan, UAE, UK, USA

Dubai, UAE – February 5th, 2025

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United Kingdom (UK)

“It is, of course, Your Highness, the remarkable leadership that you have shown over these past sixty years, which has made a reality of everything we see here today.

 

Above all, it is Your Highness’s vision which has enabled the Aga Khan Development Network to grow into an organisation of international importance, addressing development needs across the globe, and bridging the boundaries of race and religion with your message of hope, compassion and pluralism.

 

Your Highness, the extraordinary work that you have done throughout your lifetime, in the service of humanity and in the name of Islam, is as remarkable as it is invaluable. For that, you are owed the greatest debt of gratitude and I did just want to take this opportunity to thank you on behalf of us all, if I may.

 

It is clear to me that in holding dear the values of humility, honour, magnanimity and hospitality, the Ismaili Community takes its inspiration from you, Your Highness, and from your extraordinary “Greatness of Soul.”

 

In similarly inspiring this Centre, you have set it on a path to serve the world with great distinction, just as Your Highness has yourself done throughout your remarkable life.

 

My wife and I have been fortunate enough to see just what an inspiration you are to your community when we accompanied you to Altit years ago. Never will we forget that occasion.”

 

~ His Majesty King Charles III,

the then Prince of Wales,

at the opening of the Aga Khan Centre,

London, England – June 26th, 2018

 

“The King’s Trust Group is deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV and will always be incredibly grateful for everything His Highness the Aga Khan has done to support young people here in the UK and around the world.

 

His philanthropy & leadership have enabled The Trust to support +30,000 young people around the world since 2019.

 

Our condolences to his family & the Ismaili community worldwide.”

 

~ The King’s Trust International,

formerly Prince’s Trust International,

London, England – February 5th, 2025

 

“A calm voice in troubled times, a world leader, uniquely placed to bridge the cultural differences dividing the East and West.”

 

~ Her Royal Highness Princess Anne,

Chancellor of the University of London,

conferring Doctor of Literature in Education honoris causa,

London, England – October 11th, 1989

 

“The world has lost a remarkable statesman with the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

 

The Aga Khan, a British citizen, was the spiritual leader of some 15 million Ismaili Muslims worldwide, many of whom are distinguished contributors to their societies.

 

There are few Muslim leaders who have had such profound global impact, especially on low-income populations at scale. While I am not an Ismaili, the Aga Khan will always remain a hero of mine.

 

At the heart of his legacy is the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), the world’s largest network of private development agencies. The AKDN serves millions of beneficiaries daily through truly iconic, world-class projects that remain accessible to all who need them. Whether hospitals, schools, universities, museums, or libraries, AKDN has built institutions that are market leaders in each country where they operate. The network has also led major cultural interventions, such as the restoration of ancient forts that might otherwise have fallen into ruin. They remain longstanding partners of the UK’s overseas development programme.

 

Here in London, the Aga Khan Centre in King’s Cross, the foundation’s UK headquarters, is a striking building, featuring Islamic gardens inspired by diverse Muslim cultures. There are similar Ismaili Centres in Toronto, Dushanbe, Dubai and elsewhere – “ambassadorial buildings” in the Aga Khan’s own words, designed to be open and welcoming to all.

 

Perhaps most inspiring is what he taught his followers, who are widely dispersed throughout the world. He encouraged them to assimilate into their adopted countries, pledge full allegiance to their new nations, to be patriotic, entrepreneurial, and charitable. His guidance likely explains why Ismailis are so successful across many professions, so widely respected internationally, so domestically engaged, and so rarely associated with illegal activity. His own life showed that cultural adaptation does not need the abandonment of tradition – rather it could lead to enrichment on all sides. In his speeches he demonstrated a powerful multicultural fluency, seamlessly moving between worlds, and doing more to bridge Islamic and Western cultures than anyone I can think of.

 

Religious extremism was notably absent from his community, a direct result of the Aga Khan’s teachings. In his own words, “I do not govern any land” and his authority is only “that of religious interpretation.” It is indeed the Aga Khan’s interpretation of Islam, emphasising education, ethics and enterprise that gained such admiration throughout the Muslim world, and resulted in the prosperity of millions of his followers.

 

His son, Prince Rahim has now been announced as the new Aga Khan. I wish him all the best, knowing that he has benefited from his father’s 70-year masterclass.”

 

~ Lord Sarfraz,

Member of the House of Lords, the Upper House of United Kingdom Parliament,

London, England – February 6th, 2025

 

“It was with great sadness that we heard of the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan in Lisbon last Tuesday (Feb 4).

 

It was also with great joy that we heard the following day of the appointment of Prince Rahim Aga Khan as the new spiritual leader of the global Ismaili community of more than 14 million people around the world.

 

Prince Karim Aga Khan IV had led his people and community for over 67 years since his appointment on July 11, 1957. Prince Rahim, 53 years old, has very large shoes to fill.

 

There are moments in life that leave us changed forever – moments that define not just our material world, but the very essence of who we are.

 

The passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV is one such moment. It is not just a loss – it is the departure of a luminous soul whose life’s work illuminated the path for millions.

 

He was a constant reminder of the need to truly balance one’s material well-being with one’s spiritual well-being and to understand through faith a higher meaning.

 

He was one of the world’s great leaders and he will be sorely missed. His leadership was not just a guiding force; it was the embodiment of service, humility, and purpose. His vision was never about power or prestige, but about empowerment, dignity and opportunity for those often forgotten.

 

He saw the unseen, heard the unheard, and lifted those whom the world too often left behind.

 

Whether standing before world leaders or in a classroom of young children, his message was the same – every individual matters, every life holds promise, and every act of service is a step towards a more just and humane world.

 

He taught us the power of service and volunteering, which is the basic tenet of the Ismaili community. In learning to serve others, we learn to serve ourselves.

 

He was a man of many interests and great intellect and curiosity. His passions were education and architecture. I will always remember our discussions about architecture and the Aga Khan Award for architecture. His attention to the greatest detail never ceased to amaze me. A man with so much on his shoulders and yet with the time, patience, and passion to see beauty and grace in the smallest of details.

 

In times of an absence of great leaders, his spirit will be felt for generations to come for people all over the world.

 

It was through his vision and mentoring that my family established The Rumi Foundation in 2006.

 

His son, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, had not only the great privilege to be mentored and tutored by his father, but carries with him the great Ismaili tradition and lineage that goes right back to the Prophet Muhammad.

 

As Ismailis, we are very fortunate to have a young, dynamic leader to lead us through these turbulent times.”

 

~ Lord Rumi Verjee,

Member of the House of Lords, the Upper House of United Kingdom Parliament,

London, England – February 14th, 2025

 

 

“Last Tuesday (Feb 4), I learned of the sad news of the passing of an incredible humanitarian, scholar and religious leader, who inspired and brought hope to millions – His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims. (To god we belong, to god we shall return).

 

He was a global leader renowned for his contribution to humanitarian work, development and the promotion of pluralism, religious coexistence and was a guardian of cultural heritage.

 

As the Imam, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV assumed the responsibility of providing spiritual guidance and direction to millions of Ismaili Muslims across the world.

 

His leadership of the community spanned almost seven decades, focusing on education, social justice, economic empowerment and saw some significant milestones, establishing institutions that became a hallmark of the community and his lasting legacy.

 

Indeed, one of his most remarkable contributions was the setting up of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), operating in the areas of health provision, education, culture, rural development, and economic growth across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. That’s how I first met this inspiring leader, learning about the life-saving and empowering work of the AKDN on the ground in rural parts of Pakistan and across Afghanistan.

 

In 2018, I was honoured to welcome His Highness at the start of his official visit to the UK, and I recall the radiance that emanated from his face and the warmth of his smile as he descended his plane and greeted me with a warm embrace, as if we were old friends, akin to family.

 

Our conversations were ever enlightening and personal; he always demonstrated a sense of pragmatism and a deep passion to address human suffering.

 

I remember one such occasion when we talked about the challenges of the world; he listened as I spoke of the challenges of survivors of conflict and wars.

 

He smiled, held my hand and simply said, “my dear Lord Ahmad, I am with you, as is my community and the AKDN.”

 

His achievements included the establishment of Aga Khan University (AKU) – specialising on healthcare and education in Pakistan and East Africa, the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) focusing on poverty alleviation, health, and education and the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) a guardian of preservation and architectural restoration, including the Al-Azhar Park in Cairo.

 

Egypt has become the final resting place for this global leader of humanity. He also played a crucial role in promoting pluralism and interfaith dialogue, working directly with organisations such as the United Nations and World Bank to support sustainable development.

 

In 2000, he founded the Global Centre for Pluralism in Canada to advance inclusivity and diversity.

 

In our conversations we often talked of the vital need to promote the Islamic teachings of peace, compassion and coexistence, to counter the rising tide of radicalisation and extremism. Prince Karim Aga Khan’s was a life, I believe, defined by his unrelenting and passionate desire to serve the cause of humanity.

 

His personal leadership and vision saved lives and improved the lives of millions, particularly in marginalised and vulnerable communities in the world.

 

His belief of Islam as a faith of compassion, knowledge and progress is so vital in the divisions we see.

 

With his passing, the world has lost an inspiring leader, a man of faith and a passionate humanitarian – may his legacy continue for generations to come.”

 

~ Lord Tariq Ahmad,

Member of the House of Lords, the Upper House of United Kingdom Parliament,

London, England – February 14th, 2025

 

“It is with huge sadness that yesterday I learnt about the passing of His Highness The Aga Khan, a visionary leader who dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for individuals and communities worldwide — regardless of origin, faith, or gender.

 

Through hospitals, universities, community centers, places of worship, museums, gardens, and parks, he empowered countless communities, ensuring access to education, healthcare, and spaces for spiritual and cultural enrichment.

 

Beyond these tangible contributions, he also championed the preservation of cultural heritage while embracing innovation. He restored and conserved fragile monuments, safeguarding history for future generations, and established awards in architecture and music to foster creativity and excellence in these fields. The Aga Khan Award for Architecture [AKAA], in particular, has become a model for how design can be both aspirational and sustainable.

 

His Highness has been an extraordinary leader and an unparalleled force for good. I feel truly fortunate to have been in his presence while serving on the Master Jury and Steering Committee of the Aga Khan Award and, most recently, working closely with him on the Ismaili Center Houston. The lessons I have learned from him are immeasurable.

 

 

His passing is a profound loss — not just for me personally but for the entire Ismaili community and all those who had the privilege of working with him. While his absence will be deeply felt, I take solace in knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for generations to come.

 

I send His Highness’s family my most heartfelt condolences. They are in my thoughts.”

 

~ Farshid Moussavi,

Founder of award-winning architectural practice, Farshid Moussavi Architecture (FMA),

Professor in Practice of Architecture at Harvard University Graduate School of Design,

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE),

Chair, AKAA Master Jury (2004),

AKAA Steering Committee Member (2005-15),

Architect of Record of the landmark Ismaili Centre in Houston, Texas,

London, England – February 5th, 2025

 

 

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, both on a professional and a personal level.

 

I had the great honour and privilege to work with, and for, him on many levels. His renowned contribution to humanitarian causes, with a capacity and dedication to drive change as a statesman, leaves an unparalleled mark on the broken world we see.

 

He was a lover of art and architecture but also a patron who commissioned work of the highest quality as a client, and empowered his architects to take charge.

 

Under his leadership, The Aga Khan Award for Architecture [AKAA] has, for almost five decades, sought the most incredible projects and talents in what was largely an invisible ‘world’, often navigating the tough geographies of fear. These projects consistently improved quality of life through design.

 

His endowed education programmes at the Harvard Graduate School of Design and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology were ahead of the curve in raising scholarly awareness about the environmental and social impact of the cities we build.

 

The Aga Khan Development Network and Aga Khan Trust for Culture, as just two of his institutions, will continue his ambitious legacy shaped by vison, care, and dedication.

 

During our many engagements I always found him to be kind, warm and generous with a genuine concern for Humanity. His intelligence was only matched with his intellect and wit. His legacy will endure and inspire many future generations to uphold the values he stood for: tolerance; diversity; pluralism and a better world for all.

 

My Most sincere condolences to his family and leaders of all his institutions and community.”

 

~ Hanif Kara,

Structural Engineer, Design Director & Co-Founder of AKT II,

Professor in Practice of Architectural Technology at Harvard University Graduate School of Design,

Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE),

Visiting Professor of Architectural Technology at KTH Stockholm (2007-12),

AKAA Steering Committee Member (2014-16),

Master Jury of Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2004),

Recipient of the 2024 Soane Medal,

RIBA 2000 & 2012 Stirling Awards,

RIBA 2010 Lubetkin Prize,

Structural Engineer of Record of the landmark Ismaili Centre in Houston, Texas,

London, England – February 5th, 2025

 

“We are saddened to learn that His Highness The Aga Khan has passed away.

 

A passionate and highly successful owner-breeder, His Highness The Aga Khan IV has left an indelible mark on our sport and the thoroughbred breed.

 

Those famous green and red silks have been carried to victory on the biggest stage and by some of our most illustrious names, notably Shergar’s iconic record-breaking 10-length Derby success – the most memorable of the Aga Khan’s five victories in the Epsom Classic.

 

Our thoughts and condolences are with his family.”

 

~ British Horseracing Authority (BHA),

February 5th, 2025

 

“We are deeply saddened to hear that His Highness the Aga Khan has died and we send our condolences to his family.

 

He enjoyed much success at Ascot with the great Shergar, as well as Alamshar, Azamour, Tahiyra and many others.

 

His support of racing will be much missed.”

 

~ Ascot Racecourse

Ascot Racecourse is a dual-purpose British racecourse,

hosts 13 of Britain’s 36 annual Flat Group 1 races and 3 Grade 1 Jumps races,

Ascot, England – February 5th, 2025

 

“His Highness the Aga Khan was a highly successful owner-breeder who made a huge contribution to horse racing.

 

It is a tribute to him that his lasting legacy is not only a long and illustrious list of racehorses who won some of our sport’s most prestigious races over many years, but also the equine families he bred and nurtured which have made and continue to make an indelible mark on the Thoroughbred as a breed.

 

His iconic silks and passion for the sport will also live long in the memory, as will Shergar’s famous victory in the Derby at Epsom in 1981. We are deeply saddened to learn of his death and our thoughts and best wishes are with his family.”

 

~ Baroness Dido Harding,

Senior Steward,

the Jockey Club,

 United Kingdom – February 5th, 2025

“His Highness the Aga Khan’s enormous contribution to racing in Europe is one which spans not only decades but generations and we wanted to pay tribute to him in the most fitting way possible.

 

His famous silks were a familiar sight at Epsom Downs for more than 40 years and were worn by jockeys in some of the most famous renewals of the Derby of all time, from the breathtaking and record-breaking success of Shergar in 1981 to the very poignant moment in 2016 when Harzand’s victory equaled his grandfather’s total of five Derby winners.

 

I would like to thank the Aga Khan’s family for supporting us in our decision to rename this year’s race and look forward to welcoming Princess Zahra Aga Khan on Saturday 7th June as our guest.

 

We are also grateful to our sponsor, Betfred, for their help in making this possible and all of us at Epsom Downs Racecourse hope that we witness a race that is worthy of his memory next month.”

 

~ Jim Allen,

General Manager,

Epsom Downs Racecourse,

Epsom Downs, England – May 14th, 2025

 

---

UK – British Commonwealth

The Commonwealth of Nations, often referred to as the British Commonwealth or simply the Commonwealth, is a voluntary association of 56 independent and equal countries, the vast majority of which were formerly part of the British Empire.

“The relationship between His Highness and the Royal Commonwealth Society has been invaluable, and we deeply cherish the collaboration and mutual respect that have marked our association over the years.

 

His unwavering support and partnership have been instrumental in advancing our shared goals, notably connecting communities and championing education. His Highness’s commitment in these areas has been truly inspiring, and his vision and leadership have helped shape the aspirations of countless young people across the Commonwealth and beyond.

 

The Society was honoured to have worked with His Highness as Vice-President. His lifelong commitment to education, healthcare, and development has profoundly impacted people worldwide. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

 

We were also privileged to have him attend and represent the Society on several occasions at the Commonwealth Day Service of Celebration, where his presence and commitment were always deeply appreciated.”

 

~ Dr Linda Yueh CBE,

Executive Chair,

Royal Commonwealth Society,

February 5th, 2025

 

“His Highness’s passing was mourned with deep sorrow in our Commonwealth family and I share our continued condolences with his family and with the global Ismaili community.

 

His loss was not just that of a leader but of a visionary whose impact has rippled across the Commonwealth and beyond.

 

His dedication to service, to uplifting others and to the unwavering belief in the power of knowledge, faith and unity, will live long after his mortal life.

 

Tonight as we remember, we celebrate the man and the remarkable legacy which he leaves behind. It is a legacy which reminds us that leadership is not about dominion but about duty, not about authority but about responsibility, and most of all that leadership is about service to humanity.

 

The Commonwealth is built upon shared values respect for human dignity, equality and the pursuit of peace. These values were His Late Highness’s values, he embodied them throughout his life.

 

He was a champion of pluralism, a bridgebuilder across faiths and nations, and a steadfast advocate for peace.

 

All of those who’ve come to honor him tonight, I think, are evidence of that and his leadership spanned the period of the Commonwealth’s emergence. He understood profoundly, both the challenges and the opportunities that came with pluralist societies, so he was a good and wise friend to our family of nations in the face of adversity.”

 

~ The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC,

Commonwealth Secretary-General,

Keynote Address at the Ramadhan Iftar dinner held at the Ismaili Centre London,

London, England – March 26th, 2025

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United Nations (UN)

The United Nations (UN) is an intergovernmental organization that aims to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among states, promote international cooperation, and serve as a centre for coordinating global action

Established in 1945, after World War II to prevent future world wars, the United Nations succeeded the League of Nations, it is widely recognized as the world’s largest international organization, it has 193 member states, accounting for nearly all of the world’s sovereign states.193 Member States, the UN and its work are guided by the purposes and principles contained in its founding Charter.

“I am deeply saddened by the news that His Highness Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV, has passed away.

 

He was a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world.

 

I express my deepest condolences to His Highness’s family and the Ismaili community.”

 

~ António Guterres, UN Secretary-General,

New York, USA – February 5th, 2025

 

“A few years ago, I was the High Commissioner for Refugees, we met and His Highness was extremely concerned with the situation of his community in Syria, the Ismaili community living in Salamiya at the risk of being overrun by the Islamic State at any moment.

 

He massively invested in support to his community but not only to his community. Salamiya became an example in a Syrian country ravaged by war and by sectarian divides.

 

Salamiya became the example where Ismailis, Sunnis and Christians were living together, sharing everything with the fantastic support and the leadership of His Highness.

 

This is the example the world needs today!

 

With the wisdom the tolerance and compassion of His Highness the Aga Khan, I think we can win the battle for a better world.”

 

~ António Guterres,

United Nations 9th Secretary-General (2017+),

UN High Commissioner for Refugees (2005-15),

Portugal’s Prime Minister (1995-2002)

introducing His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV

for the United Nations Foundation’s

2017 Champion for Global Change Award,

New York, USA – October 18th, 2017

“The world, especially in these difficult times, needs people of vision and goodwill like the Aga Khan.

 

He is a living example that there is no inevitable contradiction between religion and democracy, that pluralism and diversity are possible, and that interaction of cultures enriches and empowers humanity.

 

As a global leader he continuously demonstrates that what unites us is far greater than what divides us.”

 

~ Late Kofi Annan,

United Nations 7th Secretary-General (1997-2006),

2001 Nobel Peace Prize laureate,

introducing His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV

on presenting the United Nations Foundation’s

2017 Champion for Global Change Award,

New York, USA – October 18th, 2017

 

 

“Service to the world community is a family tradition for His Highness.”

 

~ Late Kurt Josef Waldheim,

United Nations 4th Secretary-General (1972-1981),

former President of Austria (1986-1992),

introducing His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV

at the UNDP sponsored event sharing the Imam’s work on Muslim Architecture,

New York, USA – December 11th, 1980

---

United States of America (USA)

“I was deeply struck by his breadth of knowledge, humility, humor, spirit of generosity, genuine sense of compassion, and his desire for peace and progress. A man of action and few words, he was a champion of pluralism and bridge building in every corner of the world.

 

Aga Khan IV has left us, but the legacy of his institutions and contributions to humanity will live on, to assist future generations.”

 

~ Governor Rick Perry,

47th Governor of Texas (2000-2015),

Texas, USA – February 7th, 2025

 

“Your Highness, thank you so much.

 

My friend, the Aga Khan, I am deeply appreciative of our friendship and to your efforts for peace around the world.”

 

~ John Kerry,

68th US Secretary of State (2013-7),

during his acceptance remarks at the French Grand Legion of Honour ceremony,

Paris, France – December 10th, 2016

 

“In a world of challenges, it is important to honor the dreamers and leaders, those who take action and those who inspire us to build a better world.

 

We know the power of your work, I know the power of your network, I know what you have built!

 

And we need more networks of people determined to say this is a world of good, this is a world of standing by each other, and this is what we honor here tonight.”

 

~ Josette Sheeran,

7th President and CEO of Asia Society (2013-20),

11th Executive Director of the United Nations

World Food Programme (WFP),

former Vice Chair of the World Economic Forum,

during the award ceremony of Asia Society’s

Game Changer Lifetime Achievement Award,

New York, USA – November 1st, 2017

 

“Following his passing on February 4, we reflect on the life and accomplishments of His Highness the Aga Khan – Honoring his exceptional life and work.

 

On May 18, 2017, the League presented him with the President’s Medal, bestowed in recognition of extraordinary contributions in architecture, urbanism, art, or design. During the ceremony, League President Billie Tsien read the following words with the award:

 

The Architectural League presents its President’s Medal to His Highness the Aga Khan with profound gratitude and humility.

 

We are grateful for the extraordinary work of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture and the recognition, scholarship, and investment it has catalyzed and supported, which has raised the quality of urban and rural environments around the world.

 

We are humbled by His Highness’s belief in the power of architecture to elevate human experience.

 

His Highness has demonstrated the capacity for architecture to be encompassing and inclusive, through his probing search to conceive anew the nature of cultural identity and continuity, his openness to innovation and experimentation, and his unwavering commitment to pluralism as a foundational principle of human community.

 

By acknowledging not only the complexity and imperfection of the world we have created, but also its potential, His Highness the Aga Khan has set a magnificent example of stewardship and hope.”

 

~ Billie Tsien,

President of the Architectural League of New York,

The Architectural League – President’s Medal citation,

New York, USA – May 18th, 2018

 

“I am honoured to be here tonight with Dr David Skorton, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution and I am delighted that senior representatives of the Ismaili community in the US are here with us tonight.

 

It is a great honour to be here to receive this [Foreign Policy Association (FCP)] Medal on behalf of His Highness the Aga Khan & the Global Centre for Pluralism. His Highness asked me to convey his deep appreciation to the Foreign Policy Association – He has been a real admirer since he was an undergraduate at Harvard.

 

The Aga Khan is the Imam of the Ismaili Muslims & global philanthropist who has devoted himself to making the world a better place for all. In the last decade the Aga Khan has founded two new institutions in Canada — Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto.

 

His Highness has said: “Diversity is not a reason to put up walls, but rather to open windows. It is not a burden, it is a blessing. The work of pluralism is always a work in progress.”

 

Pluralism needs champions.

 

By conferring this prestigious Medal on His Highness, Foreign Policy Association is giving recognition & profile to pluralism.”

 

~ John McNee,

former Secretary General, Global Centre for Pluralism,

remarks on receiving FPA Medal on behalf of

His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV,

founder of Global Centre for Pluralism,

New York, USA – May 3rd, 2017

 

“Our hearts go out to the family of Aga Khan IV and to the entire Ismaili community.

 

While we mourn his passing, we honor his legacy as a peacemaker, humanitarian, and compassionate global leader.”

 

~ Paige Alexander,

Carter Center CEO,

Atlanta, GA, USA – February 4th, 2025

 

“I want to thank His Highness The Aga Khan for joining us today.

 

He is a powerful voice for culture and development around the world, and for respecting the unique culture and history of different societies.”

 

~ Former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton (1993-2001),

and 67th US Secretary of State (2009-13),

introducing His Highness to ~ 200 prominent US & foreign diplomats, artists, cultural figures, and corporate and foundation heads at the first White House Conference on Culture and Diplomacy,

Washington, DC, USA – November 28th, 2000

 

 

“The impetus for a lot of what we’re doing, had a lot to do with the role the Aga Khan has played internationally on this.”

 

~ Madeleine Albright,

64th US Secretary of State (1997-2001)

Organizer, first White House Conference on Culture and Diplomacy,

Washington, DC, USA – November 28th, 2000

 

“Today we remember the wise words of the Aga Khan, who passed away yesterday:

 

“A pluralistic, cosmopolitan society is a society which not only accepts difference, but actively seeks to understand it — and to learn from it.

 

In this perspective, diversity is not a burden to be endured, but an opportunity to be welcomed.”

 

For more inspiration, watch the video of the Aga Khan’s Jodidi Lecture, delivered at Harvard ten years ago.”

 

~ Weatherhead Center for International Affairs,

Harvard University,

Cambridge, MA, USA – February 5th, 2025

 

“Upon learning of the death of His Highness the Aga Khan, I was deeply saddened and filled with a great sense of loss.

 

He was a humanitarian leader of global dimension, a wise and eloquent public speaker, and above all a visionary. His worldwide initiatives promoted pluralism and improved communal wellbeing through philanthropic contributions, particularly in the fields of health (hospitals) and education (schools, universities).

 

A 1959 Harvard College graduate, His Highness endowed in 1979 the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The endowment reflected his vision to enhance the connection between contemporary architectural practice and scholarship on the history of art and architecture.

 

I was grateful to be one of the earliest beneficiaries of the Program, having enrolled as a graduate student that year in Harvard’s Department of History of Art and Architecture.

 

Throughout my career as a student, professor, and eventually the Aga Khan Professor of Islamic Architecture, I have witnessed the growth and evolution of the Program thanks to the continuing support of His Highness. Its many students, post-doctoral fellows, associates, and visiting lecturers owe an immense debt of gratitude for the academic opportunities his generosity and vision made possible. The endowment also enabled the publication of the journal Muqarnas, which is celebrating its fortieth anniversary this year.

 

I had the honor and pleasure of interacting with His Highness during his campus visits, and while serving on the Steering Committee of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. It is with appreciation and admiration that I will always remember our benefactor, whose memory and legacy will endure over the generations through his generous philanthropy.

 

On behalf of the Aga Khan Program at Harvard’s History of Art and Architecture Department, I extend my sincere condolences to the family, associates, and community of His Highness the Aga Khan.”

 

~ Gülru Necipoğlu,

Aga Khan Professor and Director of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture (1993+),

Editor, Muqarnas: An Annual on the Visual Cultures of the Islamic World (1993+),

Department of History of Art and Architecture, Harvard University,

AKAA Steering Committee Member (2014-16),

Guest Faculty Scholar at the Kunsthistorisches Institut of Florence (2014),

Slade Professor of Fine Arts at University of Cambridge (2013),

Recipient of the Smithsonian 2023 The Freer Medal National Museum of Asian Art,

Member, the British Academy, the American Philosophical Society, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Centro Internazionale di Studi di Architettura Andrea Palladio (Vicenza, Italy),

Cambridge, MA, USA – February 6th, 2025

 

“It is with profound sadness that we mark the passing on February 4 of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV — a visionary leader, extraordinary philanthropist, and unwavering supporter of MIT and the School of Architecture and Planning.

 

It is impossible to overestimate the Aga Khan’s impact as a major force for good, especially in developing countries and regions, since assuming his hereditary leadership role in 1957. His humanitarian work, as founder and chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network, promoted life-changing initiatives in education, health, culture, and economic development around the world, with a focus on the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The wide-ranging array of AKDN specialty agencies work strategically and collaboratively to alleviate poverty, improve the status of women, and celebrate Islamic art and architecture, among other top goals.

 

The positive influence of His Highness on architecture and urbanism cannot be exaggerated. The Aga Khan Award for Architecture, created in 1977 as part of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture, is the largest architecture award in the world. Along with other MIT faculty over the years, I am honored to serve on its steering committee, which organizes every three years to select recipients’ outstanding works in historic preservation, planning, and landscape architecture.

 

At MIT, where he presented the Commencement Address in 1994, the Aga Khan has been a longtime supporter of research and teaching on the Muslim world. The MIT Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture (AKPIA), the leading international graduate program in the field, was established in 1979 through a generous endowment from His Highness. AKPIA continues to nurture the world’s most respected researchers and educators in the history, theory, and criticism of Islamic architecture and urbanism. As part of the MIT Libraries, the Aga Khan Documentation Center and its renowned Archnet collection of visual and text materials supports scholarship and teaching near and far.

 

His Highness’s passion for buildings, his spatial thinking and synthetic approach to problems, his love of stone, geometry, light, trees, detail — but also how he viewed architecture as transformative of our lives and societies — will be missed.

 

We offer our deepest condolences to his family and community, with lasting gratitude for his humanitarian leadership and philanthropy.”

 

~ Hashim Sarkis,

Dean, MIT School of Architecture and Planning (2014+),

AKAA Steering Committee Member (2023-5),

Aga Khan Professor of Landscape Architecture and Urbanism in Muslim Societies at GSD (2002-14)

 Harvard University Graduate School of Design (GCD) Faculty (1995-2014),

Founding Principal, Hashim Sarkis Studios (Boston & Beirut),

Curator, Venice Architecture Biennale (2021),

Cambridge, MA, USA – February 6th, 2025

 

“It is with heavy heart that I write with the sad news of the passing today of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

 

His Highness was, in my opinion, the most strategic and generous philanthropist in the Islamic world. His AKDN network of organizations working on various aspects of development in the Islamic world is second to none. His AKTC, the Trust for Culture, runs a number of excellent programs that have affected the cultural expression in the Islamic world on many fronts: architecture, through the Aga Khan Award for Architecture; music, through the Aga Khan Music Award; and heritage conservation, through the Aga Khan Historic Cities Program.

 

He was also the visionary donor who endowed the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture [AKPIA] at Harvard University and MIT. We are all beneficiaries of his generosity and farsightedness, as AKPIA has become the leading program in the world for the study of Islamic art, architecture, and urbanism. His insistence in the late 1970s on designing an integral program has allowed us to grow and thrive and adapt to the changes in the world of scholarship and research for the last half century. He had judiciously nurtured the growth of AKPIA by endowing a position at the GSD and by supporting Archnet at MIT, among many other gestures of generosity and planning. We are indebted to him.

 

Personally, I had the honor to know him since 1984 as a graduate student here, then as an Aga Khan Professor. He was very keen to visit the program regularly, to check with the students on AKPIA scholarships and on the wellbeing of the program. Our relationship was strengthened after I became the Aga Khan Professor and met with him occasionally to take part in one or the other of his educational and heritage initiatives. He was always a gentleman’s gentleman: polite to a fault, patient, an incredible listener, and a generous host. Being with him was always a cherished opportunity, and I will miss his presence and visionary thinking dearly.

 

On behalf of our AKPIA community, I send our condolences to His Highness’s family, his community, and all those who were touched by his exceptionally generous life.”

 

~ Professor Nasser Rabbat,

Director of the MIT Aga Khan Program,

Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture (AKPIA) at Harvard University and MIT,

School of Architecture and Planning,

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT),

Cambridge, MA, USA – February 6th, 2025

 

“Through his work, His Highness has been able to inspire communities in developing countries as well as the West to appreciate the vital impact that the built environment plays in the quality of life.

 

His efforts have helped bridge the gap of understanding between Western and Islamic cultures.”

 

~ Carolyn Schwenker Brody,

Chair of the National Building Museum’s Board of Trustees,

presenting the 2005 Vincent Scully Prize,

Washington DC, USA – January 26th, 2005

 

“Tonight, we’re here to recognise and honour the work of an extraordinary leader who has done so much … His Highness the Aga Khan, leader of the worldwide Shia Ismaili Community.

 

The award we are presenting has a long name: The David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award. It’s named after my father, a friend of His Highness and a long-time supporter of Synergos and, at least for me, a model of a business leader using his influence and ideas to address major social and political challenges.

 

As mentioned, my father couldn’t be with us tonight. This is the first time that he hasn’t been at our awards. However, he wrote a letter, that I’m going to present to you [His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV] that if you don’t mind I’d like to read to the group.

 

He’s taken advantage of the friendship to address you as Karim.

 

“It is my privilege to congratulate you on receiving the David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award.

I am pleased and proud to see the honour bestowed on such an extraordinary individual.

 

Through the Aga Khan Development Network, you have leveraged the social conscience of Islam in ways that benefit people of all faiths, promoting tolerance, pluralism, and broad-based development.

 

From initiatives on the environment to health, food security and economic opportunity, your agencies are having a momentous impact on the lives of people in Africa and Asia.

 

I also want to commend you for your support of education at all levels, from basic education to institutions of higher learning that are helping transform these societies.

 

In the cultural sphere, you are helping to preserve and to share traditional music, architecture and art in both the developing and developed world.

 

Using investments in tourism and other endeavours to create jobs and infrastructure and channelling profits back into development programmes is an invaluable model which I hope might be expanded throughout the world.

 

Thank you for your leadership and vision.

 

With great respect and admiration.

 

Sincerely,
David Rockefeller”

 

So the kinds of bridging actions that we’re talking about: reaching out across divides and differences and outlook and political orientation, sectors of society, religious beliefs and other things that divide us, are what we at Synergos call “bridging leadership” and after which we have named this award.

 

And as my father said in his letter, His Highness represents all of those things. Pluralism and inclusion underlies these efforts while the motivation for this work comes from the social conscience of Islam, the network that he represents is non-denominational, working with and benefitting people of many faiths and origins. He would have it no other way – that is bridging.

 

The Aga Khan and his networks are innovative as well, using for profit businesses to fund development programmes and helping kick start broad economic development with critical business investments.

 

The results are tangible improvements in the lives of people in more than 30 countries.

 

For your work and the example that you set, I thank you.”

 

~ Peggy Dulany,

Founder, Synergos Institute,

daughter of David Rockefeller,

presenting to His Late Highness Price Karim Aga Khan IV

The David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Award

at the 1st University for a Night in Europe,

celebrating Synergos’ 25th anniversary,

in the presence of Princess Zahra and Prince Rahim,

London, England – October 22md, 2012

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World Bank (WB) & International Monetary Fund (IMF)

“I’m here because I’m the leader of the groupies of the Aga Khan, not so much for his work in the built environment (although I must say to you that I am deeply impressed by all that he’s done) but by his work in the human environment.

 

In my 10 years at the bank [World Bank], I’ve had the opportunity of meeting many people in the so-called development business. People that are concerned with the issues of poverty, people that in various ways display their interest in humanity, their concern for history, their concern for hope and for the future.

 

And in that 10 years, I can tell you that there is one person who stands out in my mind as an icon of not only thought and philosophy but of action. And I have to say this in front of His Highness, that I don’t say this about everybody in the development business. He has truly done the most amazing job not only for the Ismaili community throughout the world, but really for all the communities that he serves.

 

I have never met anybody who not only has the vision, but who has the personal management capacity to be able to take these visions and realize them. And I have to say that as someone who is in the professional field, he has a wonderful way of doing it, which perhaps gives him an advantage over most of the rest of us, in that he draws on remarkable experts, but he makes the decisions. I have dreamed of that at the World Bank. And so when I look at him, I not only admire him but I envy him terribly in the way in which he can operate and, indeed, bring to an effective end the work that he’s doing.

 

And through it all, having seen him in many, many parts of the world, and having talked to him at length on many subjects, there is one thing which distinguishes him, which is not in the buildings and not in the organization.

 

It is the extraordinary sense of humanity that he has. The great depth of real feeling for real people wherever they find themselves in society.

 

He is a holy man. He is the leader of his faith. He’s a man who represents the very best in Islam. Something that all too often we tend to forget these days. That Islam carries with it values and a culture from which we can all learn.

 

He started The Aga Khan Development Network in 1967. It was his idea. And he has grown it in the most remarkable way, starting with the needs of education, dealing with all levels of education – from preschool education to particularly the education of women. He has looked through high schools, ordinary schools to universities. And I think many of you will know of the preeminence of The Aga Khan University in Pakistan, and the remarkable work that it has done in nursing, healthcare, management, and in everything that it touches.

 

And so it is especially wonderful tonight that he’s being honoured with this prize for the built environment at a time that we’re also thinking of the work that he’s done at the human level and, indeed, the level of faith and morality which he does so remarkably well. …

 

We salute you, Your Highness.”

 

~ Late James Wolfensohn,

World Bank President (1995-2005),

Australian Olympic Épée fencer (1956),

Board Chair, Institute for Advanced Study (1987-2007),

Board Chairman, Carnegie Hall (1980-91),

Board Chairman, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (1990-95),

Founding Board Member, Aga Khan Museum (2014),

introducing His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV

for the Vincent Scully Prize,

at the National Building Museum,

Washington DC, USA – January 25th, 2005

 

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Aga Khan IV.

 

A visionary who championed global development, education, and inclusion.

 

My heartfelt condolences to his family and the Ismaili community.”

 

~ Kristalina Georgieva,

Managing Director,

International Monetary Fund,

February 5th, 2025

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World Monuments Fund (WMF)

“World Monuments Fund (WMF) is deeply saddened by the passing of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV on February 4, 2025.

 

As well as being the spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community, the Aga Khan was a passionate philanthropist and advocate for heritage conservation.

 

He established the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which supports causes including poverty reduction, disaster response, healthcare accessibility, and food security in over 30 countries around the globe.

 

The Aga Khan spearheaded wide-ranging cultural efforts, such as promoting music education, building state-of-the-art museums, and founding the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.

 

The AKDN’s work restoring and rehabilitating historic cities and green spaces aligns with WMF’s mission, and we are proud to have collaborated with the organization to preserve important urban landmarks in Aleppo, Syria; Cairo, Egypt; Delhi, India; and Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 

The Aga Khan IV received our Hadrian Award in 1996 for his outstanding commitment to preservation.

 

At WMF, we remember the late Aga Khan as a champion of contemporary and historic buildings, particularly the diverse heritage of the Islamic world.

 

We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and his faith community at this time.”

 

~ World Monuments Fund

February 7th, 2025

 

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Zanzibar

“As we mourn this great loss, we also celebrate a leader whose legacy will inspire generations – His Holiness’ visionary leadership and dedication to all human life, education, health and international development through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN).

 

On behalf of the Government and people of Zanzibar, we offer our condolences to the family of Allah, the Ismaili community and all those affected by his legacy.

 

The Government of Zanzibar stands in solidarity with the Ismaili community and the AKDN during this difficult time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

 

Inna lillahi wa inna lilayhi raji’un.”

 

~ Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi,

8th President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council,

Tanzania’s Minister of Defence and National Service (2014-20),

Minister of Health and Social Welfare (2012-4),

son of 2nd President of the United Republic of Tanzania (1985 -95),

Zanzibar – February 5th, 2025

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East African Community

The East African Community (EAC) is a regional intergovernmental organisation of five Partner States, comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda, with its headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania.

“My condolences to the Ismaili Muslim community on the death of their spiritual leader, Prince Aga Khan.

 

A man of remarkable wisdom and intelligence who spent his childhood in Kenya and whose multiple charitable works and other investments will never be forgotten in East Africa.”

 

~ Ambassador Dr Libérat Mfumukeko,

East African Community Secretary General (2016-21),

Arusha, Tanzania – February 6th, 2025

 

“Tanzania is indebted to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan for his far sighted vision, commitment to human development and humility.

 

Aga Khan’s faith in the human spirit inspires hope in millions around the world.

 

The people of this country, immensely value the past and present contributions of His Highness, I am aware of the enormous Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) future investment plans in the East Africa region and am truly grateful to him for his commitment and vision.

 

Apart from the Aga Khan’s commitment to human development, he is also a firm believer in quiet diplomacy and in 1961, the Aga Khan met with the late President Kennedy to seek assistance for the East African nations to come together as a federation.

 

In 2012, fifty one years later, the East Africa Community and the AKDN signed a Memorandum of Understanding to foster development in the region and to build a cohesive society irrespective of origin or faith.

 

For over twenty years, I have had the opportunity of meeting His Highness in my capacity as minister, president and now former president. During my tenure as a trustee on the Board of the Aga Khan University, I closely got to know that his greatest gift to humanity is the recognition that we have to work together across national boundaries irrespective to gender, race, religion, or regions of the world.

 

There are currently 50,000 rice farmers in southern Tanzania who are experiencing yields of two or three times more and where 120,000 community based savings programme rice growers are learning about free market economy.

 

As regards to education, about 180 schools have been constructed since 1905 when the first girl’s school was built in Zanzibar. I mention this because this exhibition ‘Rays of Light’, is only a very small portion of the works of the Ismaili Imamat.

 

If all the contributions made over the last century by the family of His Highness were to be exhibited, a much larger exhibition space would be required.”

 

~ Benjamin Mkapa,

President of Tanzania (1995-2005),

speaking at the Rays of Light Exhibition

at the Diamond Jubilee Hall,

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – February 14th, 2014

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Sports Diplomacy | Sport of Kings – Thoroughbred Racing & Yachting

“He was a great friend to global racing. The IFHA was greatly honored by His Highness’s delivery of the first keynote address at the International Conference of Horseracing Authorities in October 2011.

 

The Aga Khan’s longstanding commitment to the sustainability and growth of global horse racing is epitomized by his investment in bloodstock and in racing infrastructure projects at racecourses such as Chantilly and the Curragh, and his patronage also contributed to the sponsorship and development of the weekend surrounding the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe.

 

He bred and raced horses in at least 15 different countries and won over 160 group 1s around the world, leaving an indelible mark on our sport.

 

He will be deeply missed.”

 

~ Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges,

IFHA Executive Chair,

International Federation of Horseracing Authorities,

February 5th, 2025

 

“It is very hard to sum up such a magnificent achievement.

 

Comparisons are odious but one would have to think that with what the present Aga Khan has achieved, he is certainly in a class of his absolute own.

 

He was a figure of utmost importance and had a quiet influence, not only on racing and breeding but on the improvement of the integrity of the sport. He had immense success using stallions who were not necessarily at the top of the tree commercially but often whose best produce he had bred, such as Sinndar, by Grand Lodge.

 

The strength of his broodmare band was unparalleled and, built up over 100 years, was replenished by the occasional block purchase.

 

The entire international Thoroughbred breeding industry stands in awe at the achievement of HH Aga Khan IV, attained over decades of dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm.

 

The Aga Khan’s Thoroughbred bloodlines dominate and influence breeding the world over.

 

On a personal note, I am immensely grateful to have been able to purchase Alruccaba as a two-year-old in 1985, from whom stem the Lanwades-bred champions Alborada, Albanova and Alpinista.”

 

~ Kirsten Rausing,

IFHA Chair,

International Federation of Horseracing Authorities,

February 5th, 2025

 

“It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of His Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV whose extraordinary life was dedicated to philanthropy and the beauty of the sea.

 

His Highness served as the Honorary Chairman of the International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) for 42 years (1983-2025).

 

Among the Aga Khan’s numerous initiatives, he was a founder of the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda (YCCS) in 1967. His connection with the 12mR Class began in 1981 with his support of the first Italian challenge for the America’s Cup, Azzurra (I-4).

 

His Highness’ deep passion for the sea and sailing drove him to support historic endeavours in the yachting world, starting with the first Italian challenge for the America’s Cup launched in 1981 for the Newport ‘83 edition. The Azzurra became a symbol of determination and passion, an icon of Italian sailing that inspired generations of sailors.

 

Because of its provenance, the Azzurra Trophy is among the most coveted awards in yacht racing and is still sought after by would-be 12mR World Champions.

 

Fair Winds to The Aga Khan, who’s life-long pursuit of excellence, far-reaching philanthropy, love of the sea and commitment to the International 12mR Class will not soon be forgotten.

 

8 Bells – Farewell to The Aga Khan, the Prince Who Made Italians Fall in Love with Sailing with Azzurra.”

 

~ International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA),

February 5th, 2025

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Research, Translation, Insight & Perspective by A. Maherali

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Discover, Explore & Learn more via:

1. AKDN | His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s Titles, Decorations, Honorary Degrees and Awards
2. Nanowisdom | Graphic timeline of awards and honours accorded to His Highness the Aga Khan
3. Ottawa Citizen | Jean Chrétien: Why the world celebrates the Aga Khan
4. Government of Canada | Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s remarks at the Foundation Ceremony for the Ismaili Centre and the Aga Khan Museum and Park
5. Facebook | Rick Perry’s Post on His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV
6. AKDN | His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s Speeches – University of Evora Honorary Doctorate
7. The Royal Family | A speech by The Prince of Wales at the opening of the Aga Khan Centre, Kings Cross, London
8. AKDN | His Highness the Aga Khan receives Champion for Global Change Award
9. AKDN | His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s Address to both Houses of the Parliament of Canada in the House of Commons Chamber
10. AKDN | His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s Address to the Parliament of Portugal
11. Daily Hive News | Opinion: Why we should be proud to call the Aga Khan a Canadian
12. AKDN | Investiture Ceremony of His Highness the Aga Khan as a Member of the Lisbon Academy of Sciences
13. AKDN | His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s Speeches – Opening ceremony of the new headquarters of the Global Centre for Pluralisms
14. Barakah | The Aga Khan Stands Out as an Icon of Action – A Tribute by World Bank President, James Wolfensohn
15. Asia Society | Asia Game Changer Awards (HP) – His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan
16. The Architectural League of New York | 2017 President’s Medal honoree – His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan
17. Cronaca Sardegna | La morte dell’Aga Khan, il cordoglio della politica sarda: Regione forse presente ai funerali
18. YCCS | The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda pays tribute to His Highness the Aga Khan
19. YCCS | Yacht Club Costa Smeralda set for top-level sporting season
20. Sail World | Yacht Club Costa Smeralda set for top-level sporting season
21. Sailing Newspaper | Farewell to the Aga Khan, the prince who made Italians fall in love with sailing with Azzurra
22. Blood Horse | Influential Owner/Breeder the Aga Khan Dies at 88
23. The Anglican Church of Canada | Statement on the death of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV
24. The Ismaili | World leaders pay tribute to Mawlana Shah Karim: Tributes poured in from more than 100 presidents, prime ministers, ministers, ambassadors, and mayors around the world, past and present, who have commended the large scope of Mawlana Shah Karim’s work and legacy
25. The Ismaili (Instagram) | Tributes to Mawlana Shah Karim
26. The Ismaili – IICanada | Tributes to Mawlana Shah Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV (Update)
27. Barakah | Tributes to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan from leaders of Canada’s public and private sectors: Prime Minister Trudeau; Archbishop of The Anglican Church; University of Calgary and More
28. Barakah | Tributes from around the world to Mawlana Shah Karim, His Highness the Aga Khan IV (d. February 4, 2025)
29. AKDN | Statement by His Excellency Hamid Karzai at the Die Quadriga Award ceremony
30. Prime Minister of Canada | Statement on the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan
31. The Royal Commonwealth Society | Statement on the passing of RCS Vice-President, His Highness the Aga Khan
32. National University of Ireland – Maynooth University | MU saddened at death of Prince Karim Aga Khan
33. University of Toronto | The Aga Khan receives honorary degree from Trinity College at U of T
34. University of Toronto | The Aga Khan remembered in Canada and around the world
35. University of Alberta | Statement on the Passing of His Highness, The Aga Khan IV from the University of Alberta
36. University of Calgary | University of Calgary mourns the passing of the Aga Khan
37. The Business Standard | CA mourns death of Ismaili Muslims leader Aga Khan IV
38. Doha News | Qatar mourns the passing of the Aga Khan, Prince Karim Al-Hussaini
39. Ismailimail | Tanzania: Aga Khan inspires hope in EA region – reflects former President Mkapa
40. Barakah | Tribute and Photo Essay: The Late Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa and His Unmistakable Support for the Work of His Highness the Aga Khan
41. Upenda News Portal | President, Dr. Samia of Tanzania and President of Zanzibar, Dr. Mwinyi mourn the death of Aga Khan IV
42. International Twelve Metre Association (ITMA) | 8 Bells: Prince Karim al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV – His Highness’ Commitment to the 12mR Class Spanned 42 Years
43. Unione Sarda | Olbia Airport Named After Aga Khan: Green Light from ENAC
44. Asia Plus | Russia pays homage to His Highness the Aga Khan
45. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation | Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s opening remarks at talks with Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, Spiritual Leader of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslim Community, Moscow, April 20, 2017
46. Paris Peace Forum | Director General of the Paris Peace Forum, Justin Vaïsse’s LinkedIn Post
47. The Mo Ibrahim Foundation acknowledges the passing of His Highness Aga Khan IV
48. LinkedIn: John Stackhouse | Remembering the Aga Khan: A Legacy of Leadership and Community
49. AKDN | Mostar honours the Aga Khan: A bridge for peace and unity
50. Breednet | Sad Passing Aga Khan + Social Media: Facebook & X
51. Australia | The Straight | ‘Playing chess with nature’ – How the Aga Khan changed the global thoroughbred industry
52. Racing Post ANZ Bloodstock | The Aga Khan dies aged 88
53. Racing Post | ‘He has left an indelible mark on our sport’ – Coolmore among those to pay tribute to the Aga Khan
54. X – Afghanistan in Australia | The Coordination Council of the Diplomatic and Consular Missions of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
55. Government of Uganda – State House | President Museveni Meets Princess Zahra Aga Khan, Pays Tribute To Late Aga Khan IV
56. The Irish Field | Aga Khan: A global force in bloodstock who gave so much to Irish racing
57. TDN Europe | Vale His Highness The Aga Khan IV
58. TDN Europe | ‘In a class of his absolute own’: Tributes flow for HH Aga Khan IV
59. MIT – School of Architecture + Planning (SA+P) | His Highness the Aga Khan IV, 1936-2025
60. Politics Home – The House | Tribute to His Highness the Aga Khan – by Lord Sarfraz
61. Eastern Eye | Tribute to His Highness the Aga Khan – by Lord Lord Rumi Verjee
62. Eastern Eye | Tribute to His Highness the Aga Khan – by Lord Tariq Ahmad
63. Architects’ Journal | Champion of Islamic architecture the Aga Khan dies aged 88 – Tributes from Farshid Moussavi (designed the landmark Ismaili Centre in Houston, Texas) & Hanif Kara
64. The Architectural League of NY – Instagram | Honoring the exceptional life and work of His Highness the Aga Khan (1957–2025)
65. The RIBA Journal | Obituary: Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, Aga Khan IV
66. Harvard University | Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at Harvard University – In Memoriam: His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV
67. RFI | French president Macron pays tribute to ‘inspirational’ Aga Khan
68. Nation | Aga Khan’s success lay in melding the deeply spiritual and temporal
69. Nation | Aga Khan’s big contribution to education
70. Architectural Record | Tribute: Prince Karim Al-Hussaini, the Aga Khan IV (1936–2025)
71. Moriyama Teshima Architects | Passing of His Highness the Aga Khan IV
72. RAIC | In Memoriam: His Highness the Aga Khan IV
73. Kéré Architecture | A Profound Loss – Francis remembers the Aga Khan
74. Idol Horse | Aga Khan’s “Charisma” And “Aura” Will Be Missed: Lemaire
75. Harvard University | Weatherhead Center for International Affairs + Social Media: Facebook & Instagram
76. AIK News Pakistan | Instagram – Global Leaders Pay Tribute to Aga Khan’s Humanitarian Legacy – Pakistan, Canada, UN
77. Club of Mozambique | Mozambique’s President expresses condolences for the death of Prince Karim Aga Khan IV
78. Think City Instagram | In Memorium His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV
79. Mufties Council of RBM RF | Chairman of the Religious Board of Muslims of the Russian Federation Chief Mufti Sheikh Ravil Gainutdin expressed condolences on the death of Karim Shah Aga Khan IV
80. BAPS | Tribute to His Highness Aga Khan by Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj, Johannesburg, South Africa
81. AKDN | Keynote Address by His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV at the 14th Cycle of AKAA 2019 Presentation Ceremony in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation – thematic remarks on 40 continuous years of Y Imamat involved with architecture & 14th cycle focuses on Architecture in Dialogue. Qualities of creative dialogue, 4 areas
82. AKDN | Keynote Address by Mintimer Sh. Shaimiev at the 14th Cycle of AKAA 2019 Presentation Ceremony in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation – thematic remarks on preservation of inter-ethnic and inter-confessional peace and harmony, the revival of spirituality via three historical sites are inscribed onto the UNESCO World Heritage List – The Muslim shrines of the ancient Bolgar, the Orthodox sites of the island-town of Sviyazhsk, and the Kazan Kremlin are equally valuable and important for us
83. AKDN | Global Centre for Pluralism Annual Lecture 2016 – Justice Albie Sachs, a senior member of the African National Congress and a key architect of Mandela’s post-apartheid Constitution, delivered the fifth Annual Pluralism Lecture entitled, “The Battle for the South African Constitution,” in Toronto at the Aga Khan Museum.
84. 24KG | President Sadyr Japarov expresses condolences to Prince Rahim Aga Khan
85. 24KG | President Sadyr Japarov meets with Prince Rahim Aga Khan IV
86. Club of Mozambique | Aga Khan: Prime Minister recalls founder of a network “always with Mozambique”
87. AKDN | Aga Khan Development Network in East Africa – The Network is committed to the building of enabling environments. Formal agreements have been signed with the Governments of Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. In July 2012 the AKDN entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the East African Community to strengthen and broaden cooperation in the areas of economic, social and cultural development throughout East Africa
88. The East African Community (EAC) – International Relations | EAC Secretary General meets Aga Khan Representative in Nairobi to explore explored the possibility of expanding the Aga Khan Integrated Health Systems across all the EAC Partner States, especially in secondary cities like Kisumu, Mombasa, Arusha, Mwanza, Entebbe, Jinja, Butare and Ngozi, among others
89. AKDN | Signing of agreement between Aga Khan Development Network and East African Community
90. The East African Community (EAC) – Amb. Dr Libérat Mfumukeko | His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan’s passing
91. Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University | Photo Gallery | Fall 2015 Centerpiece: Jodidi Lecture “The Cosmopolitan Ethic in a Fragmented World” by His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan’s passing
92. Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University | Samuel L. and Elizabeth Jodidi Lecture Series: “The Cosmopolitan Ethic in a Fragmented World” by His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan’s passing
93. AKDN | Aga Khan receives 2005 Vincent Scully Prize
94. Barakah | The Aga Khan Stands Out as an Icon of Action
95. Simerg | Sir James D. Wolfensohn (1933-2020): Led the World Bank, Chaired the IAS Board and Was Deeply Reverential of Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, Calling Him an Icon of Action
96. LinkedIn | Senator Farah Mohamed – on being both a proud Canadian & an Ismaili Muslim
97. X | Ralph Goodale – Canada’s Representative to the Ismaili Imamat (3rd Ambassador to Ismaili Imamat)
98. X | Marc-Andre Blanchard – Canada’s Representative to the Ismaili Imamat (2nd Ambassador to Ismaili Imamat)
99. X | Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada and Leader of the Liberal Party |
100. X | Bob Rae, Canada’s Ambassador to the UN
101. X | John Ralston Saul, Essayist, novelist & President Emeritus @PEN_int
102. X | Naheed Nenshi, Leader of Alberta’s New Democrats and former Mayor of Calgary
103. X | Christy Clark, former Premier of British Columbia
104. X | The King’s Trust International & The Kings Trust (UK)
105. X | Jason Kenney, 18th Premier of Alberta. Former Canadian Minister of Defence; Employment & Social Development; Immigration; & Multiculturalism
106. X | John Baird, former Canadian Foreign Minister
107. The Ismaili | New Representative of Canada to the Ismaili Imamat presents credentials
108. Government of Canada – Global Affairs Canada | Minister Joly announces appointment of the Honourable Ralph Goodale as representative of Canada to Ismaili Imamat
109. AKDN | New Representative of Canada to the Ismaili Imamat presents credentials
110. AKDN | Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat
111. Facebook | The Curragh Racecourse
112. Godolphin | Statement on the passing of His Highness the Aga Khan
113. Nile Post | Museveni eulogises Aga Khan, hails his legacy in Uganda
114. Nile Post | Kabaka pays tribute Aga Khan IV, affirms continued partnership with Ismaili community
115. Facebook | Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga
116. X | UK Buganda
117. Instagram | The Costa Smeralda Consortium and Smeralda Holding
118. AKDN | Transcript of a conversation between His Highness the Aga Khan and Synergos Founder Peggy Dulany at the Synergos University for a Night Event
119. Galluraoggi.IT | Olbia Remembers the Aga Khan. Nizzi: “We Will Dedicate a Monument to Him”
120. Linkedin | Arif Lalani
121. TV Ontario | Video – Aga Khan IV’s Legacy in Canada and Beyond
122. Linkedin | Joy Johnson, President and Vice Chancellor at Simon Fraser University
123. Linkedin | John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights
124. Linkedin | Canadian Federation For Citizenship
125. Linkedin | Karen Young President and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area
126. Senator Paula Simons

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Explore
World Wide Honors & Global Impact of the Ismaili Imamat: His Highness Aga Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah, Aga Khan III & His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV	Road to Jubilee Games: Aga Khan, Sports & Diplomacy	Retrospective: His Highness Aga Sir Sultan Muhammad Shah, Aga Khan III – 72 years of Imamat

Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada calls His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan “a dear friend and a mentor,” an inspiring global citizen of an inclusive world

Foreign Policy Association honors His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan with FPA Medal

France Honours Mawlana Hazar Imam and Prince Amyn, and pays tribute to His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s Family

Aga Khan’s Constellation of Accolades – Over 200 honors from 50 countries

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Earlier
Global | How Much Power Does the Aga Khan Have? UK | Sport of Kings: Epsom honours His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV in naming of 2025 Derby Ismaili Imamat | Senior Officials of the Seat of Ismaili Imamat, Personal Representatives of the Imam, AKDN Resident Representatives, LIF, Titles of Honour Canada | Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson: The Aga Khan believed in Canada – “He thought very highly of Canada and had a great belief in our values” Kingdom of Buganda | Kabaka pays tribute to Aga Khan IV, affirms continued partnership with Ismaili Imamat & Community Burkina Faso & Germany | Francis Kéré, AKAA & Pritzker Laureate: HH Aga Khan’s passing “leaves a void, an immeasurable loss, not only for me but for my family” Canada | Farah Mohamed becomes the second Ismaili Muslim to be appointed to the Senate of Canada UK- British Commonwealth | His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV – A visionary whose impact has rippled across the Commonwealth and beyond Global Health & Medical Research: Lancet | His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV thought in terms of generations … Italy: Sardinia | ENAC Board approves naming the Olbia Airport in honour of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV Global: Why the World Celebrates His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV | Constellation of Honours: Over 300 Accolades from 55 Countries UK: Retrospective | Muslim Education: Historical 1957 London video interview of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV Canada: Royal Architectural Institute of Canada bestows 2nd honour on His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV Italy: Sports Diplomacy Video Tribute | His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV’s sincere wish that the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda would stand as an example and an inspiration Portugal: President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa – Prince Karim Aga Khan, a good friend of Portugal & a remarkable figure of a faith open to the world United Nations: UNSG António Guterres – Aga Khan a symbol of peace, tolerance and compassion in our troubled world USA: Religion News Service – Understanding the Aga Khan, Spiritual Leader of Ismaili Muslims – what most media missed USA: Khaliya – A murid’s love for the Imam – Aga Khan UK: The Rest is Politics – The Influence of Aga Khan IV USA: Governor Rick Perry – I have lost a dear friend and mentor – His Highness the Aga Khan IV, 49th hereditary Imam of the world’s 15 million Ismaili Muslims Italy: Prince Karim Aga Khan’s impact and legacy through the Yacht Club Costa Smeralda – Azzurra, Destriero, One Ocean Foundation & Charta Smeralda Ethical Code Italy: Karim Aga Khan IV and the birth of Costa Smeralda – Tributes from Municipalities of Arzachena and Olbia Italy, Pakistan & UK honor the 49th & 50th Ismaili Imams

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Via Ismaili Council for Canada & The Ismaili

Leaders and institutions across Canada have shared messages of condolence and tribute to His Highness Prince Karim al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV. These messages -100 listed below – reflect the deep relationships His Highness Prince Karim fostered throughout Canada and his significant contributions to Canadian society and humanity.

The Ismaili reports that soon after the news broke of his passing, Heads of State, Government, and International Organizations publicly praised his life and work – tributes poured in from more than 100 presidents, prime ministers, ministers, ambassadors, and mayors around the world, past and present, who have commended the large scope of Mawlana Shah Karim’s work and legacy. Pakistan declared 8 February 2025, the date of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan’s funeral, as a national day of mourning. The region of Sardinia in Italy also declared two days of mourning.

MESSAGES FROM LEADERS

1. Her Excellencty the Right Honourable Mary Simon – Governor General of Canada
2. The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau – Prime Minister of Canada
3. His Excellency the Honourable Ralph Goodale – Canadian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Canada’s Representative to the Ismaili Imamat
4. His Excellency the Honourable Bob Rae – Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations
5. Her Excellency Aliya Mawani – Ambassador of Canada to the State of Kuwait
6. The Honourable Bill Blair – Minister of National Defense
7. The Honourable Harjit Sajjan – Minister of Emergency Preparedness
8. The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne – Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
9. The Honourable Ahmed Hussen – Minister of International Development
10. The Honourable Kamal Khera – Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities
11. The Honourable Arif Virani – Minister of Justice, Attorney General of Canada
12. The Honourable Nate Erskine-Smith – Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities
13. The Honourable Pierre Poilievre – Leader, Conservative Party of Canada
14. The Honourable Edith Dumont – Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
15. The Honourable Wendy Cocchia – Lieutenant Governor of BC
16. The Honourable Salma Lakhani – Lieutenant Governor of Alberta
17. The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson – Former Governor General of Canada
18. The Right Honourable Stephen Harper – Former Prime Minister of Canada
19. The Honourable Doug Ford – Premier of Ontario
20. The Honourable David Eby – Premier of B.C.
21. The Honourable Danielle Smith – Premier of Alberta
22. The Honourable Salma Ataullahjan – Senator, Canada
23. The Honourable Amina Gerba – Senator, Canada
24. The Honourable Paula Simons – Senator, Canada
25. Jagmeet Singh – Leader, New Democratic Party of Canada
26. The Honourable Chrystia Freeland – Member of Parliament, University-Rosedale, Ontario
27. The Honourable Rob Oliphant – Member of Parliament, Don Valley West
28. The Honourable Randy Boissonnault – Member of Parliament, Edmonton Centre
29. The Honourable Karina Gould – Member of Parliament, Burlington, Ontario
30. The Honourable Marco Mendicino – Member of Parliament, Eglinton-Lawrence, Ontario
31. The Honourable Omar Alghabra – Member of Parliament, Mississauga Centre, Ontario
32. Taleeb Noormohamed – Member of Parliament, Vancouver Granville, BC
33. Marie-France Lalonde – Member of Parliament for Orléans, Ontario
34. Michael Coteau – Member of Parliament, Don Valley East, Ontario
35. Adam van Koeverden – Member of Parliament, Milton, Ontario
36. Paul Chiang – Member of Parliament, Markham-Unionville, Ontario
37. Sameer Zuberi – Member of Parliament, Pierrefonds-Dollard, Quebec
38. Yasir Naqvi – Member of Parliament, Ottawa Centre, Ontario
39. Shuvaloy Majumdar – Member of Parliament, Calgary Heritage, Alberta
40. Marcus Powlowski – Member of Parliament, Thunder Bay-Rainy River, Ontario
41. Salma Zahid – Member of Parliament, Scarborough Centre, Ontario
42. Fayçal El-Khoury – Member of Parliament, Laval-Les Îles, Quebec
43. Bonnie Crombie – Leader, Liberal Party, Ontario
44. Marit Stiles – Leader, New Democratic Party, Ontario
45. Naheed Nenshi – Leader, New Democratic Party, Alberta
46. The Honourable Ravi Parmar – Minister of Forests, British Columbia
47. Dr. Adil Shamji – Member of Provincial Parliament of Ontario, Don Valley East
48. Sunita Dhir – Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Vancouver-Langara
49. Mark Sutcliffe – Mayor of Ottawa
50. Jyoti Gondek – Mayor of Calgary
51. Olivia Chow – Mayor of Toronto
52. The Honourable Amarjeet Sohi – Mayor of Edmonton
53. Frank Scarpitti – Mayor of Markham
54. Patrick Brown – Mayor of Brampton
55. Ken Sim – Mayor of Vancouver
56. Andrea Horwath – Mayor of Hamilton
57. Carolyn Parrish – Mayor of Mississauga
58. David West – Mayor of Richmond Hill
59. Mike Little – Mayor of the District of North Vancouver
60. Mike Klassen – Councillor, City of Vancouver
61. James Pasternak – Councillor, City of Toronto
62. Josh Matlow – Councillor, City of Toronto
63. John Burnside – Councillor, City of Toronto
64. Shelley Carroll – Councillor, City of Toronto
65. Tim Cartmell, Councillor, City of Edmonton
66. Sandra El-Helou, Conseillère Municipale – Ville de Laval
67. Marc-André Blanchard – Former Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations and Former Canadian Representative to the Ismaili Imamat
68. The Honourable John Baird – Former Minister of Foreign Affairs
69. The Honourable Erin O’Toole – Former Leader, Conservative Party of Canada
70. The Honourable Jason Kenney – Former Premier of Alberta
71. Christy Clark – Former Premier of B.C.
72. John Tory – Former Mayor, City of Toronto
73. Mark Carney – Former Governor, Bank of Canada
74. Amira Elghawaby – Canada’s Special Representative on Combatting Islamophobia
75. John Ralston Saul – Viceregal Spouse

INSTITUTIONAL TRIBUTES

1. ADR Institute of Canada
2. Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Calgary
3. BC Women’s Health Foundation
4. Calgary Chamber of Commerce
5. Canadian Architect
6. Canadian Federation For Citizenship
7. Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs
8. Cumming School of Medicine UCalgary
9. Durham Children’s Aid Foundation
10. Immigrant Services Society of BC
11. John Humphrey Centre for Peace and Human Rights
12. OCAD University
13. Resilient Societies
14. Royal Canadian Hospital Foundation
15. Simon Fraser University
16. Social Innovation Canada
17. The Anglican Church of Canada
18. The King’s Trust
19. United Nations Women Canada
20. United Way of Calgary and Area
21. University of Alberta
22. University of British Columbia
23. University of Calgary
24. University of Toronto
25. World University Service of Canada

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