Prince Rahim Aga Khan Arrives in Gilgit-Baltistan for Key Visit
Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V arrived in Gilgit-Baltistan on Friday during his week-long visit to Pakistan, drawing major public and administrative attention across the region. His arrival in Gilgit marks one of the most significant stages of his first Pakistan visit since assuming the role of spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last year.
The visit has generated strong interest in Gilgit-Baltistan, where large public gatherings are expected during his stay. Local authorities, community representatives and regional officials have been preparing for his engagements, which are expected to include public appearances and addresses at different venues.
According to state media reports, Prince Rahim was received at the Gilgit airport by caretaker Chief Minister Justice retired Yar Muhammad and other senior civil and military officials. The reception reflected both the formal significance of the visit and the importance of his role for communities across northern Pakistan.
Welcome banners and messages were placed across parts of Gilgit ahead of his arrival, while preparations were reported in several areas likely to host gatherings. Officials expect major attendance in Hunza, Gilgit city, Gahkuch Bala and Taus Yasin, prompting authorities to consider crowd-management steps and possible multiple sessions at some venues.
Prince Rahim arrived in Pakistan earlier this week and was received by President Asif Ali Zardari at Nur Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi. He is scheduled to remain in the country until May 26, with his engagements covering both federal meetings and regional visits.
Since arriving in Pakistan, he has held discussions with President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and MNA Aseefa Bhutto Zardari were also present during his meeting with the president, which was followed by delegation-level talks.
During a breakfast meeting hosted by the prime minister, Prince Rahim expressed his desire to continue cooperation with Pakistan in human development initiatives. The statement is significant because the Aga Khan Development Network has long been associated with social-sector work in health, education, culture, rural development and community welfare.
The visit also carries historical importance for the Ismaili community and for Gilgit-Baltistan, where the Aga Khan family has maintained deep social and developmental links for decades. Prince Rahim’s presence is expected to renew attention on community institutions, development partnerships and long-running public welfare initiatives in the region.
Prince Rahim was awarded the Nishan-i-Pakistan in 2024, Pakistan’s highest civilian honour, in recognition of the Aga Khan family’s contributions to the country. His latest visit is being closely followed not only as a community event but also as a broader symbol of cooperation between Pakistan and institutions linked to long-term development.
For Gilgit-Baltistan, the arrival is likely to bring heightened public mobilisation, security coordination and renewed focus on regional development priorities. The coming days will show how his public engagements unfold and whether new cooperation signals emerge during the remaining schedule of his Pakistan visit.