Lisbon, Portugal – Prince Rahim Aga Khan V the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims and Chair of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), today met with Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank, at the Diwan of the Ismaili Imamat in Lisbon, Portugal.
This marked their first meeting since Hazar Imam assumed office earlier this year, following their previous discussion at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, DC, in February 2024.
The leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, including development priorities in Afghanistan and Central Asia, post-conflict recovery in Syria, strategies to address the climate crisis, expanding access to clean energy in Africa, and fostering job creation.
The World Bank and AKDN share a longstanding partnership, collaborating across multiple sectors, including energy, financial services, telecommunications, agribusiness, community development, entrepreneurship, health, microfinance, and tourism. Their joint efforts have contributed to sustainable development and improved quality of life in communities around the world.
Today’s meeting reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in addressing pressing global challenges and advancing inclusive, resilient development.
About the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN)
The AKDN is a network of private, non-denominational development agencies working in over 30 countries to improve quality of life and create opportunities for marginalized communities. Active in areas such as economic development, education, health, and cultural revitalization, AKDN agencies operate on the principles of self-reliance, pluralism, and ethical stewardship.
About the World Bank
The World Bank provides financial and technical assistance to developing countries for sustainable development projects, poverty reduction, and shared prosperity. It works in partnership with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address global challenges such as climate change, fragility, and inequality.
BY: The Times Union
