Aga Khan Development Network: His Highness the Aga Khan Visits Syria on the Occasion of His Golden Jubilee

Damascus, Syria, 24 August 2008 - His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam, (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, and founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), arrived in Damascus today, on a 6-day official visit to Syria. He was received at the airport by Deputy Prime Minister Mr Abdullah Al-Dardari, Minister of Tourism, Dr Sa'dallah Agha Al-Qal'a, various faith leaders as well as leaders from the Ismaili Community in Syria and officials from the AKDN.

	His Highness the Aga Khan greeting leaders of the Ismaili Community and the AKDN in Syria, upon his arrival at Damascus Airport. He is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Abdullah Al-Dardari. - Photo: AKDN/Gary Otte


	His Highness the Aga Khan with Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Abdullah Al-Dardari, who received him upon his arrival at Damascus Airport. - Photo: AKDN/Gary Otte


	His Highness the Aga Khan leaving Damascus airport. - Photo: AKDN/Gary Otte


	His Highness the Aga Khan meets with Syria's President, His Excellency Bashar al-Asaad, in the afternoon of his arrival into Damascus. The Aga Khan is visiting Syria on the occasion of his Golden Jubilee. - Photo: AKDN/Gary Otte