PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesay issued the following statement on Imamat Day:
“Today, Ismaili Muslims across Canada and around the world celebrate the anniversary of the ascension of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV to the Throne of the Imamat.
“On July 11th, 1957, His Highness The Aga Khan became the 49th hereditary Imam – spiritual leader – of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims.
“Over the last 61 years, the Aga Khan has been a strong voice for Ismailis and an advocate for people around the world of all origins and faiths. He has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty, advance gender equality, and champion healthcare and education for the most vulnerable.
“The Aga Khan is a global humanitarian leader who has inspired so many of us to serve our communities and believe in a peaceful, more inclusive world.
“The values promoted by His Highness – kindness, compassion, and respect for diversity and human rights – are deeply held in Canada. We are proud to have bestowed honorary Canadian citizenship on the Aga Khan, and honoured to host both the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto and His Highness’ Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa. This centre leads vital conversations on how diversity and pluralism enrich our communities and strengthen our societies.
“Today, as celebrations for his diamond jubilee year come to a close, we reflect on the Aga Khan’s example, the importance of seeing ourselves in each other, and building bridges, rather than barriers, between communities.
“I wish all Ismaili Canadians celebrating Imamat Day a heartfelt Khushiali Mubarak!”