His Highness the Aga Khan concludes inaugural visit to Canada, marking new milestones

His Highness the Aga Khan concludes inaugural visit to Canada, marking new milestones

AKDN / Akbar Hakim

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Toronto, Canada, 2 April 2026 - His Highness the Aga Khan has concluded his first official visit to Canada, marking a new chapter in a partnership between Canada, the Ismaili Imamat and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) that spans more than 50 years and reflects a shared commitment to pluralism, inclusion and human development.

The visit began in Ottawa, where His Highness met with Canadian leaders to reaffirm the enduring cooperation between Canada, the Imamat and AKDN. Together, Prime Minister Carney and His Highness released a joint declaration outlining new partnerships in affordable housing, economic development, principled diplomacy and other areas of mutual interest, setting the stage for renewed collaboration in international development, domestic investment and the promotion of pluralism.

Speaking at a parliamentary reception attended by senators, ministers and members of Parliament, His Highness thanked generations of Canadian leaders for a history of productive global collaboration. He noted that as the world's fissures deepen, trusted and longstanding partnerships are more important than ever to create lasting, sustainable prosperity and to help more countries become places of opportunity for their own populations.

In Quebec, His Highness presided over the groundbreaking of a new Jamatkhana (place of worship) in Laval, alongside Canada's Minister of Finance and Mayor of Laval. The ceremony marked an important moment for the Ismaili community in the Greater Montreal area, while also reflecting the broader partnership between Canada and the Imamat.

"Today, we are not merely laying a cornerstone or pouring concrete. We are building a bridge between cultures and generations," said François-Philippe Champagne, Canada's Minister of Finance and National Revenue. "This is an ambitious project that embodies what the Ismaili community has brought to Quebec and Canada for more than 50 years: inclusion, innovation, service and pluralism."

In Ontario, His Highness inaugurated Generations Toronto, an affordable housing and long-term care facility designed to support community-centred aging within an intergenerational framework. Developed in partnership with the Government of Ontario, the project is guided by values of human dignity and compassion, addressing the health consequences of social isolation for seniors while providing affordable housing.

"Our government is proud to see the completion of the 122-bed long-term care home," said Premier Doug Ford. "As part of a campus with 390 affordable homes, on-site health care, childcare and community programming, Generations Toronto is a place where families can thrive together, alongside relatives who need more care."

During the inauguration, Mayor Olivia Chow presented His Highness with the Key to the City of Toronto. The honour recognised his vision and commitment to improving quality of life in Canada and around the world, through institutions and initiatives spanning health care, education, culture, habitat and financial inclusion.

His Highness's visit celebrated Canadian projects that reflect shared values and foster inclusive communities, while reaffirming the enduring partnership between Canada, the Imamat and AKDN to improve quality of life globally and in Canada.

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