Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement marking the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan:

“Today we join Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims in British Columbia and around the world in celebrating the 85th birthday of their spiritual leader, His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.

“The Aga Khan has worked selflessly to help reduce poverty and improve quality of life for some of the world’s most vulnerable people. As we all continue to cope with a global pandemic, addressing growing inequality has taken on new urgency.

“All his life, the Aga Khan has been a tireless champion of education and health care. His promotion of peace and pluralism has earned him a reputation as a global humanitarian. His deep commitment to social responsibility and human dignity are reflected in the work of the Aga Khan Development Network and the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa.

“It was my great honour to meet the Aga Khan in Vancouver in 2018 to mark his Diamond Jubilee. His example is a lesson for us all in the importance of compassion and service.

“The Aga Khan is an honorary Canadian citizen and has been invested as an honorary Companion of the Order of Canada, both distinctions reflecting the esteem with which he is regarded by Canadians.

“The Aga Khan’s birthday reminds us all of our common humanity. We wish him happiness and continued health on his birthday and for years to come.”