Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb offered condolences to Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, the 50th spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, in Portugal’s Lisbon on Saturday.

“During the meeting with Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V, the 50th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, the minister expressed heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of late Prince Karim Aga Khan on behalf of the president, the prime minister and the people of Pakistan,” he was quoted as saying in a statement.

Aurangzeb, who represented Pakistan, attended the funeral ceremony in the Portuguese capital.

The finance minister lauded the services of the late Prince Karim Aga Khan and the Aga Khan Development Network for developing human capacity, generating economic growth, building resilient communities and honouring cultural heritage.

“The sad demise of Prince Karim al-Hussain is a monumental loss not only for his family, friends and followers but also for the underprivileged and destitute people of the world,” Aurangzeb said and recalled the Aga Khan IV’s “special attachment” to Pakistan and its people.

The Government of Pakistan declared February 8, 2025 as the day of national mourning on account of the funeral of Prince Karim Aga Khan. Pakistani flag remained on half-mast in the country and at Pakistan missions abroad.

Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s envoy to the UAE, also visited the Ismaili Centre Dubai to offer condolences on the passing away of Prince Karim Al-Hussaini Aga Khan IV.

Ambassador Tirmizi paid tribute to the “extraordinary life and legacy of His Highness, which was marked by an unwavering commitment to serving humanity.”

He described the Shia Ismaili leader as a “global beacon of hope” whose efforts uplifted the underprivileged and vulnerable communities across the world.

Ambassador Tirmizi also highlighted the “profound connection” between the Aga Khan IV and Pakistan.

He recalled the philanthropist’s contributions to Pakistan’s socio-economic development, particularly through the work of the Aga Khan Development Network.

In his visit, Tirmizi was received by Ismaili Centre Dubai Vice President Khalil Feroz Muhammad, Head of Diplomatic Relations Akbar Verjee, and Hassan Vellani, a senior representative of the Ismaili community.

Together, they reflected on the life and legacy of Aga Khan IV. Ambassador Tirmizi recorded his condolences in the official condolence book at the Ismaili Centre Dubai.

“The passing of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV is a great loss for the global community. His legacy will continue to inspire us to strive for a more equitable and compassionate world,” he said.

The Embassy of Pakistan in the UAE extended its “deepest sympathies” to the Ismaili community, the Aga Khan family, and all those mourning the loss of this “extraordinary leader.”