Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V arrived in Gilgit-Baltistan on Friday during his week-long Pakistan visit. He is expected to attend public gatherings and address several ceremonies across the region. The visit holds importance for the Ismaili community and Pakistan’s ongoing partnership with Aga Khan development institutions.
State broadcasters reported that caretaker Chief Minister Justice (retd) Yar Muhammad welcomed Prince Rahim at Gilgit airport. Senior civil and military officials also attended the reception ceremony. Meanwhile, authorities displayed welcome banners and messages across different parts of Gilgit city ahead of his arrival.
Read more: Prince Rahim Aga Khan V pledges support for Pakistan’s development
Prince Rahim arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday for his first official visit since becoming the Ismaili community’s spiritual leader last year. President Asif Ali Zardari received him at Rawalpindi’s Nur Khan Airbase upon his arrival. He later held separate meetings with President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.
During a breakfast meeting hosted by PM Shehbaz, Prince Rahim expressed interest in continuing cooperation on human development initiatives in Pakistan. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and MNA Aseefa Bhutto Zardari also attended delegation-level talks with the president earlier this week. Officials said the discussions focused on welfare and development cooperation.
Read more: Prince Rahim Aga Khan V arrives Islamabad
Prince Rahim will remain in Pakistan until May 26 and will be treated as a state guest in Gilgit-Baltistan. Authorities expect large public gatherings in Hunza, Gilgit City, Gahkuch Bala, and Taus Yasin during his visit. This marks his second Pakistan visit since receiving the Nishan-i-Pakistan in 2024 for the Aga Khan family’s services to the country.