Lisbon, Portugal, 11 July 2023 - Members of His Highness the Aga Khan’s family yesterday welcomed Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and other senior officials to a reception at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon.

The reception, held on the occasion of Imamat Day – the 66th anniversary of His Highness’ ascension to the Ismaili Imamat – was attended by Prince Amyn Aga Khan, Prince Rahim Aga Khan, and Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan, along with senior leaders of government, civil society, and the Aga Khan Development Network.

Distinguished guests were offered a first look at the restored site of the Palacete Mendonça in Portugal’s capital, the meticulous refurbishment of which has stayed true to the building’s original design from 1902 by the architect Ventura Terra.

On behalf of His Highness, Prince Amyn Aga Khan extended a warm welcome to guests on this special occasion.

“While this is not an opening of the Diwan,” he said, “it is very special for us at last to be able to host you in this beautiful building and welcome you to the Seat of the Ismaili Imamat, which has been designated by my brother, His Highness the Aga Khan, as the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat.”

Nazim Ahmad, Diplomatic Representative of the Ismaili Imamat to Portugal, expressed his appreciation to Portuguese leaders, past and present, for supporting AKDN’s work, and looked ahead to strengthening the partnership.

“We look forward to facing the future together,” he said, “and to continue to contribute towards the progress and well-being of Portugal and its peoples, through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network.”

In attendance were the country’s most senior leaders, including current and former Portuguese presidents, prime ministers, foreign ministers, and mayors – many of whom have worked with AKDN in various capacities.

President Marcelo in his address paid tribute to the Aga Khan Foundation’s multi-decade development efforts in Portugal, and noted the agency’s multi-input approach.

“Present in Portugal since 1983,” the President said, “the Aga Khan Foundation has made its mark on our society in early childhood education, poverty reduction, economic inclusion, strengthening civil society, and caring for the elderly.”

AKDN agencies in Portugal have worked with compassion for many decades to improve the quality of life in the region and beyond.

“Our purpose,” explained Prince Amyn, “is to uphold human dignity, to help improve the lives of the vulnerable, and to support the pluralism that exists here in Portugal, and which is crucial to the maintenance of a peaceful, compassionate and harmonious society.”