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I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support we have received for this project.

This includes the steadfast backing from the State of Texas, Mayor Turner, the City of Houston and its residents, including those in attendance here today.

As we share this moment today, in your eighth and final year as Mayor of Houston, I want to express to you on behalf of myself personally and on behalf of the Ismaili community, that the legacy you leave in the City of Houston and the State of Texas will be celebrated for decades to come.

Today’s Topping Out ceremony of the Ismaili Center is a fitting occasion on which to honor your significant contribution and lasting legacy.

(After presentation by Mayor Sylvester Turner of the Key of the City of Houston to Mowlana Hazar Imam, Prince Amyn said the following)

I would like to begin my comments this afternoon by saying how touched I am by the recognition that you have given to my brother, His Highness The Aga Khan.
It is with great happiness that I receive, on his behalf, the Key to this wonderful City.

He has previously remarked on this old historic tradition that has existed in many countries in many parts of the world, and has said, and I am quoting: “I am going to use these keys to open as many doors as possible. Doors to happiness, doors to peace, doors to unity, doors to human progress.”

Our aspiration is that, Inshallah, the Ismaili Center will open its doors to the City of Houston, State of Texas and to all citizens of the United States in 2025.