Ibn Khaldun Chair of Islamic Studies at American University and former Pakistani High Commissioner to the UK and Ireland. Wilson Center Global Fellow.
Washington, D.C.
Joined April 2009
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In memory of H.H. The Aga Khan
The passing of the Aga Khan is not just the loss of a great soul but an irreparable loss for humanity. In his personal attributes of compassion and respect for knowledge he symbolized the dialogue of civilizations.
I had the privilege of meeting the Aga Khan when the accompanying photograph was taken in Ganada at his conference co-hosted by the King of Spain. He will be sorely missed as a titanic figure promoting universal harmony at a time of so much division and violence in the world. I pray for his soul and bless his memory.
He wrote: “With my warm personal regard and high esteem for your outstanding contributions to the Ummah, Aga Khan. 15.10.1995.”
Frankie Martin and I wrote an article for the @TheWilsonCenter in light of the worsening situation in Afghanistan. Under a new administration, we still have the ability to foster positive change in Afghanistan with solid governance. We cannot allow the mistakes of the past to let us abandon the Afghan people. See more here: wilsoncenter.org/article/bry… @AmericanU @AU_SIS
I recounted my days in Baluchistan and narrated how Nawab Akbar Bugti, the charismatic Baluch leader, discussed the works of the great Arab historian Ibn Khaldun while in the mountains of Dera Bugti. Those were different days and different times. Read the excellent article by Malik Siraj Akbar on Baluchistan today:
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The film of my play
Gandhi and Jinnah Return Home was shown at SOAS in London, yesterday.
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Shocked to hear of the passing of the great Alex Salmond. He was a man with a big heart and inclusive vision of the world. He will be sorely missed. He was a compassionate and kind friend and human being. I will always remember that he gave great support to me whether launching the "Jinnah" film in Glasgow or giving a brilliant interview for my book and film project "Journey into Europe." Prayers for his soul and family.
Recently he interviewed me for "Scotland Speaks."
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My old school Burn Hall cites me as “Hallian excellence” to engender pride. Makes me feel pride - and deeply humble.
From "Scotland Speaks" with Alex Salmond: "A VOICE OF REASON AMID THE STORM A full-scale conflagration is now threatening in the Middle East, in addition to the slaughter in Gaza. Alex interviews the man who, over the last quarter of a century, has sought reconciliation and understanding between the West and the Islamic world. Professor Akbar Ahmed of the American University in Washington DC provides a sustained voice of reason and for peace, amid the gathering storm."
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A marvelous and inspiring evening of sober music and thought. The interfaith panel at the National Cathedral 15 April evening consisted of Senior Rabbi Susan Shankman, Akbar Ahmed, Senior Rabbi Bruce Lustig, Mona Golabek and Dean Randy Hollerith of the Cathedral (left to right). The panel followed the brilliant musical performance by Mona Golabek of "The Children of Willesden Lane" with its eternal message of hope and healing.
David Kilcullen, considered a world authority on modern guerrilla warfare, he was senior advisor to General David Petraeus in Iraq.
In homage to the early bloom of cherry blossoms this Spring in Washington DC.
My poem "Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White."
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Dr Andre Singer for his documentary on the Pathans interviewed me as South Waziristan Political Agent in the PA's bungalow in Tank.
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