Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on the Birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Dec 13, 2015) - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement on the birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:

"Today, we celebrate the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, who has dedicated his life to the promotion of peace, pluralism, and compassion around the world.

"For over fifty years, the Aga Khan has been an inspiration to millions, working tirelessly to improve the health and education of those living in some of the world's most vulnerable countries. As a global humanitarian leader, he has worked with many partners - including Canada - to implement vital programs that advance long-term solutions to poverty, illiteracy, and disease.

"I have seen first-hand the Aga Khan's commitment to the ideals of diversity and inclusion. As a nation, we are proud His Highness was granted honourary Canadian citizenship for the leadership he has shown to advance development, pluralism, and tolerance - values that are at the core of our national identity.

"The world needs champions of diversity and compassion. Today, we are delighted to thank our good friend, the Aga Khan, for all that he has done to help those in need, and wish him good health, happiness, and peace on this special day."

This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca