Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of my brother, His Highness the Aga Khan, it is my pleasure to send a message of solidarity and partnership to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Prime Minister, and to all citizens of the United Arab Emirates.

At the outset of these remarks, we would like to express our deepest condolences for all those who have lost their lives or been impacted by the current conflict across the Middle East. We pray for a swift and peaceful resolution.

I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the vision and generosity of His Highness the Prime Minister, and all of you, who are doing so much to save millions of lives and keep tens of millions more from suffering the effects of malnutrition.

It is therefore our pleasure to join His Highness Sheikh Mohammed in the Edge of Life Campaign, alongside all the other organisations represented.

And, in solidarity with the campaign and its vision, I am pleased to announce that His Highness the Aga Khan, commits $100 million over the next five years to prevent malnutrition in South and Central Asia, Eastern Africa and Syria.

This more than doubles our previous commitments.

And so, I leave you with a message from my brother, His Highness:

“Malnutrition remains one of the greatest barriers to human development, undermining the health, potential and dignity of millions of children and families. Addressing this challenge requires sustained commitment and collective action. I am honoured to join His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, and all the partners he has gathered, in supporting efforts to ensure that every child has the opportunity to grow, to thrive and to contribute to their communities.”

Thank you.