dailynewsnblog
July 25, 2026 – Vancouver, British Columbia – Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V in Vancouver today to discuss shared priorities related to international development, economic partnerships, affordable housing and regional security.
Minister Anand welcomed the progress of the implementation of the Joint declaration between Prime Minister Mark Carney and His Highness the Aga Khan of March 2026 and noted the importance of maintaining momentum on its implementation.
The Minister also highlighted the success of the Generations multi-generational housing initiative across Canada, led by the Ismaili Council for Canada, and underscored that affordable housing remains a priority for the Government of Canada.
Minister Anand and the Aga Khan discussed the housing partnership announced under the Joint Declaration, a clear example of practical cooperation between Canada and the Ismaili Imamat and welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding between Build Canada Homes and the Ismaili Council for Canada, dedicated to focused on advancing affordable multi-generational housing and community infrastructure projects across Canada.
The Minister also highlighted the continued cooperation through the FinDev Canada-Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development Memorandum of Understanding, which outlines a shared commitment to cooperate and explore potential investment opportunities in infrastructure, renewable energy, agriculture and financial services.
The Minister also recognized the Aga Khan Development Network’s (AKDN) long-standing presence and expertise in regions facing complex challenges, including Syria, and highlighted its important development partnerships in Pakistan and East Africa, expressing appreciation for its work improving the quality of life through initiatives that address social and economic challenges facing local communities.
Minister Anand concluded by recognizing the long-standing contributions of the Ismaili community in Canada through volunteerism, civic engagement, philanthropy and investment in communities across the country, and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the Ismaili Imamat and the AKDN, including through continued collaboration to advance stability, resilience and sustainable development.
