AGA KHAN NOW AWARDED FRANCE’S HIGHEST HONOUR

His Highness The Aga Khan after receiving an award from the French government, recognising his efforts to improve the lives of the most vulnerable around the world.

France has awarded His Highness the Aga Khan, the country’s highest national medal of honour in recognition of his efforts to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable people around the world.

The award is in recognition of the Aga Khan’s Diamond Jubilee, commemorating 60 years as Imam (spiritual leader) of the world’s Shia Ismaili Muslim community.

Presenting the award on behalf of President Emmanuel Macron on September 19, France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Yves Le Drian, praised His Highness’s commitment to the cause of peace, pluralism and development.

“France wishes to warmly express its gratitude by elevating you to the dignity of the Grand Cross in the order of the Legion of Honour. On behalf of the president of the republic, and by virtue of the powers conferred upon me, we bestow you the dignity of the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour,” said Mr Le Drian.

The award ceremony was followed by a dinner hosted by the French government in honour of the Aga Khan. In attendance were government officials and leading members of French social, economic and cultural civil society organisations.

Members of His Highness’s family — his brother Prince Amyn, his son Prince Rahim and his daughter Princess Zahra — were also in attendance together with senior leaders from the Aga Khan Development Network and the Ismaili community.

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