It is my sincere hope that, by its presence and the functions it fulfills, the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat will be an illuminating landmark on “the Mile of History.” An epitome of friendship to one and all, it will radiate Islam’s precepts of one humanity, the dignity of man, and the nobility of joint striving in deeds of goodness.”
His Highness the Aga Khan
June 6, 2005 – His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam (spiritual leader) of the Ismaili Muslims and founder of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), initiated the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat, in the presence of Her Excellency the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada.
Her Excellency the Governor General, speaking about the Delegation, commented that “This place represents such an infusion of energy, and I am sure that it will move development efforts forward….May I again say how pleased I am to be part of this important event in the life of the Ismaili community and also of the City and this country. Please be assured that you are welcome here. Know that when you speak, Canada and the world will listen.”
His Highness the Aga Khan remarked that the occasion was of special significance to the Ismaili community and the Imamat.
“The event which brings us together – the initiation of the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat – is a celebration of the Ismaili community’s permanent presence in, and commitment to Canada.
“It is my sincere hope that, by its presence and the functions it fulfils, the Delegation of the Ismaili Imamat will be an illuminating landmark on “the Mile of History”. An epitome of friendship to one and all, it will radiate Islam’s precepts of one humanity, the dignity of man, and the nobility of joint striving in deeds of goodness.
The Delegation will serve a representational role for the Imamat and its non-denominational, philanthropic and development agencies which constitute the Aga Khan Development Network – the AKDN. An open, secular facility, the Delegation will be a sanctuary for peaceful, quiet diplomacy, informed by the Imamat’s outlook of global convergence and the development of civil society. It will be an enabling venue for fruitful public engagements, information services and educational programmes, all backed up by high quality research, to sustain a vibrant intellectual centre, and a key policy-informing institution.”
Full speech at AKDN Press Centre
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