Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited on Monday the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) to increase its investment in Pakistan’s tourism sector.

He said this during a meeting with Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development Executive Committee Chairperson Prince Rahim Aha Khan, who called on him along with a five-member delegation, in Islamabad.

The prime minister also congratulated Prince Rahim Aga Khan on receiving the Nishan-e-Pakistan Award – the country’s highest civilian honour – from the government.

He expressed gratitude to the visiting dignitary for establishing various social welfare projects in less developed and remote areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral.

Setting up of various welfare projects in Pakistan’s education, health, agriculture, tourism, IT and other sectors was “commendable,” PM Shehbaz said and added that the establishment of a software technology park and solar power plants organised by the AKDN in Hunza was also “highly commendable.”

He also expressed his appreciation for the establishment of the microfinance banking centre of Habib Bank Limited in Gilgit.

HBL Microfinance Bank new regional headquarter inaugurated in GB

Earlier in the day, Prince Rahim inaugurated the HBL Microfinance Bank (HBL MfB) its new regional headquarters for G-B.

“The building underlines the Bank’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and local community development. A blend of modern architecture and local cultural elements, the building meets some of the highest international standards of green construction,” said a press release.

According to the bank, it has earned the LEED Gold certification and EDGE Advanced certification, one of the first buildings in the country to achieve this.

The LEED Gold certification from the US Green Building Council highlights the building’s superior performance in energy and water efficiency, sustainable site development, and indoor environmental quality.

“The inauguration of HBL Microfinance Bank’s Regional Headquarters Gilgit-Baltistan is a remarkable milestone for both the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the Bank,” said Prince Rahim Aga Khan.

“It is a major step towards AKDN’s goal of achieving Net-Zero by 2030. As we continue our journey to a better and more sustainable future, this building serves as a symbol of continued progress, sustainability, and prosperity for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.”