Aga Khan discusses development with President Kalam, PM

Islamic spiritual leader Aga Khan, who runs a large number of philanthropic institutions in India, on Wednesday met President A P J Abdul Kalam and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and discussed developmental issues.

Khan, who is in Delhi on a four-day visit, also called on Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat.

The spiritual leader is slated to meet Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Lal Kishenchand Advani and United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Thursday.

The Aga Khan Foundation, an international developmental agency, has been carrying out philanthropic activities and promoting solutions to problems impeding economic and social development, especially in the countries of Asia and Africa.

Its network in India spreads over states like Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan and covers areas ranging from education, health and rural development to culture, architecture and disaster management.

He also met Minister of State for External Affairs E Ahamed, Urban Development Minister S Jaipal Reddy and Tourism Minister Ambika Soni on Wednesday.