Based on recent information, a prominent princess is associated with the Gilgit-Baltistan region through significant development initiatives.
According to a reference from May 24, 2024, Princess Zahra Aga Khan is mentioned in connection with Gilgit-Baltistan. The reference specifically highlights that she "reaffirms AKDN's support for development of Gilgit-Baltistan."
Understanding the Connection
While the reference identifies Princess Zahra Aga Khan in the context of Gilgit-Baltistan, it's important to understand her role and connection:
- Princess Zahra Aga Khan: She is the eldest daughter of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV, the 49th hereditary Imam of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims. The Aga Khan and his family lead the Ismaili community globally and are deeply involved in philanthropic and development work.
- Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN): Princess Zahra is actively involved in the AKDN (www.akdn.org), a group of international development agencies founded by her father. AKDN works to improve living conditions and opportunities in developing countries, particularly in Asia and Africa.
- AKDN in Gilgit-Baltistan: AKDN has a long history of implementing development projects in Gilgit-Baltistan, focusing on areas like healthcare, education, rural development, and economic empowerment. Parts of Gilgit-Baltistan are home to significant Ismaili communities.
- Reaffirming Support: Princess Zahra's statement, as noted in the reference, underscores the ongoing commitment of the AKDN and the Aga Khan family to the progress and well-being of the people in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Clarifying the Title
It is crucial to note that while Princess Zahra Aga Khan is a princess (by virtue of being the daughter of Prince Karim Aga Khan), the provided reference does not indicate that she holds a formal or historical title as "The Princess of Gilgit-Baltistan" in the regional sense. Her association with the region, as described in the reference, is through the significant development work carried out by the Aga Khan Development Network.
The region of Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan has a complex history involving various former princely states and is now an administrative territory. The title "Princess of Gilgit-Baltistan" is not a recognized current formal title associated with its administrative structure or historical ruling families in a consolidated manner.
In conclusion, the reference identifies Princess Zahra Aga Khan as a key figure involved in supporting the development efforts in Gilgit-Baltistan through her role within the Aga Khan Development Network.
