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| Aga Khan signs guest book |
The Aga Khan has told a combined session of Parliament that he wants Canada to join him in making the world a more tolerant, peaceful place. “Canada is a leader in the community of nations,” the 77-year-old leader of the world 15 million Shia Ismaili Muslims told assembled members. The Aga Khan is widely appreciated in the West for his moderation and interest in pluralism. Here in Toronto, the large Muslim community has participated in the completion of the 18-acre Cultural Centre and Museum located on Wynford Drive. Important South Bayview leaders like Mohamed Dhanani, Executive Officer at Aga Khan’s Council for Canada in Toronto will be celebrating the current visit. Mr. Dhanani is from Leaside and was twice a popular candidate for City Council in Ward 26. The Aga Khan is an honorary citizen of Canada and he began his message to Parliament today by congratulating the country on its outstanding Olympic hockey teams. He went on to reflect that as he had once played hockey he regretted that he was not eligible for Team Canada. He said he was sure that he and another prominent honorary citizen, the Dali Lama, would have made excellent defensemen. The Harvard-educated religious leader spoke elegantly in both official languages. He said his foundation would help Canada celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2017. His speech follows a private meeting with Prime Minister Stephen Harper following a morning arrival on Parliament Hill. Harper introduced him as a tireless humanitarian, lauding him for development partnerships in Africa, Asia and in Afghanistan.”
