The awards are presented annually to individuals, organisations, and movements that have inspired, enlightened, and shown true leadership in areas that reflect Asia Society’s core activities, policy and business, arts and culture, and education.
He accepted the award “for improving the lives of millions in Asia and around the world,” through the initiatives of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) recently, according to an AKDN statement.
“A leader of any global community hopes and prays for one thing – peace,” Aga Khan was quoted as saying, “peace in every community, in every country of the world, so that men and women can live in safety, build their futures with strength, courage, hope and wisdom.”
Sharon Rockefeller, President and CEO of WETA-TV and wife of former Senator John “Jay” Rockefeller presented the ward together with Michael Bloomberg, former Mayor of New York City.
It represents the fourth major honour bestowed on the Aga Khan in New York City this year, which also marks his Diamond Jubilee as Imam (spiritual leader) of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community.
Earlier this year, he was awarded the Foreign Policy Association Medal and received the Architectural League of New York’s President’s Medal and the United Nations Foundation’s Champion for Global Change Award.
“Through the Aga Khan’s network and his role as a spiritual leader, he has worked for decades to help build a more peaceful and tolerant world,” said Bloomberg.