"All Afghans should, as promptly as possible, re-establish open and brotherly dialogue among themselves, as our faith instructs us to do, so that Islam's ethic of peace becomes a national reality. We are not allowed to live in hate."
Announcing his intention to continue humanitarian relief programmes in Afghanistan, the Aga Khan made a commitment to also support the rehabilitation of education, healthcare, agriculture and infrastructure.
He said these efforts will commence in areas where collaboration with local communities and other agencies can facilitate the transition to long-term development.
Addressing crowds of tens of thousands at centres along the Pyanj River that marks the border between Afghanistan and Tajikistan, the Aga Khan credited the establishment of peace in regions of Tajikistan still emerging from civil strife to the success of agrarian reform, health, education and economic regeneration programmes undertaken by the Aga Khan Development Network.
Speaking at Porshniev, Tem, Roshorv, Vanj, Langar, Ishkoshim and Yoget during an eight-day official visit to Tajikistan, the Aga Khan noted "with great pain and sadness, Muslims fighting against Muslims in Afghanistan."
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