DUSHANBE, April 4, 2012, Asia-Plus  -- His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims, is arriving in Dushanbe today for a short visit.

Ms. Sitora Shokamolova, Communications Officer, Ismaili Center, Dushanbe says His Highness the Aga Khan who is founder and Chairman of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) will hold talks with President Emomali Rahmon today.

The sides are expected to discuss a series of current and planned projects of AKDN in Tjaikistan.  They will also discuss a number of national and regional problems as well as opportunities for further expansion of cooperation.

The presidential press service has confirmed information about the upcoming meeting of President Emomali Rahmon with His highness the Aga Khan.

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a group of development agencies with mandates that include the environment, health, education, architecture, culture, microfinance, rural development, disaster reduction, the promotion of private-sector enterprise and the revitalization of historic cities. AKDN agencies conduct their programs without regard to faith, origin or gender.

AKDN works towards the vision of an economically dynamic, politically stable, intellectually vibrant, and culturally tolerant Tajikistan.  This is achieved by supporting the establishment of programs and institutions that allow the government, private sector and civil society to play complementary roles in increasing prosperity and creativity within a pluralistic society.  Operating in Tajikistan since 1992, AKDN draws on a strong base of experience in working with mountain societies.  It works in all regions of the country and employs approximately 3,000 people through its operations and investments.