Looking forward
On 3 June 2015, at the invitation of the Portuguese government, Mawlana Hazar Imam signed a landmark Agreement between the Ismaili Imamat and the Republic of Portugal to establish a formal Seat of the Ismaili Imamat in Portugal. The Agreement was approved by the Portuguese parliament on 18 June of the same year, marking the first such accord in the Imamat’s modern history.
This milestone will have a great impact on the future of the Jamat in Portugal. The historic establishment of the Seat of Imamat in Lisbon will provide an enabling framework which will facilitate the work of the Ismaili Imamat and the Imam globally for years to come.
In his address upon signing the Agreement, Mawlana Hazar Imam described it as “a uniquely important occasion, where we will have for the first time in our history the opportunity to work with a partner with whom we share so many values, and so many hopes, and so many wishes.”
This July, Portugal will also host thousands for the Diamond Jubilee Celebration - Lisboa 2018. The celebration will include an International Arts Festival, two Jubilee Concerts, the Patio Mela, three Exhibitions, and general Khushiali celebrations.
Mawlana Hazar Imam will also visit Portugal during this time to engage in official activities relating to initiatives of the Ismaili Imamat and Aga Khan Development Network, meet with the Jamat of the Portugal jurisdiction, and grant a Darbar open to members of the global Jamat.
