Speech by H.E. Dr. Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury,
Hon'ble Adviser for Foreign Affairs at the Foundation Laying Ceremony of the Dhaka Ismaili Jamatkhana Complex as Chief Guest
21 May 2008

Your Highness
Prince Aga Khan
Ladies and Gentlemen

- I am enormously honored to be invited to this event today, graced by the presence of His Highness Prince Karim, the Aga Khan.

- Also because the occasion is the inauguration of the Jamatkhana, which will not only be a place for congregation though also that, but will offer a spiritual sanctuary for the Ismaili community as well.

- As all are aware, Islam places the utmost emphasis on the balance between spiritual yearnings and worldly obligations.

- The Ismaili community, represents a model of a tranquil equilibrium where our inner selves find harmony with the material world.

- His Highness the Aga Khan embodies this spirit. He has dedicated his life and works to this cause. On this his Golden Jubilee we acknowledge his contribution to the fulfillment of the aspirations of millions of Muslims, with humility and appreciation.

- The image of Islam today often confronts challenges, particularly in the western world. These must be met with examples and evidence. There is also sadly a tendency to posit a static vision of Islamic civilization. Our works today must reflect the dynamism of our faith.

- We are heir to great and historic traditions. We must build on this inheritance by tackling the global issues of today: poverty, illiteracy, disease, and environmental degradation. Bangladesh will contribute to these efforts to the best of our abilities.

- Your Highness, in Bangladesh we respect the inalienable fundamental rights of all citizens. This includes those of all faiths. We wish to forge greater understanding between the various schools of our own great religion, and build bridges across different faiths and civilization. Our domestic endeavours in this respect reflect our international positions and obligations, both within and outside the United Nations.

- Of course we remain resolute in the global campaign against fundamentalism and terrorism. We champion the rights of peoples everywhere to be free, and the yoke of foreign occupation to be lifted from whenever it exists.

- Let this Jamatkhana be a venue from which will flow these ideas and ideals bonding men and women seeking enlightenment peace and tolerance.

- With these few words let me just say what a pleasure it is for me to lay the foundation of this complex of hopes and promises.