In an earlier message of condolence, the Aga Khan, whose close friendship with King Hussein goes back several decades, said "Muslims and non-Muslims alike mourn the passing of a great sovereign and a truly courageous man, whose accomplishments will mark history, and whose example in Islam should be universally emulated."
"For his unique and courageous role in seeking and maintaining peace in the region, His Majesty was held in the highest esteem by all, from world leaders to the poorest and the humblest. He was beloved and respected by the Jordanian people for his wise and compassionate leadership" the Aga Khan wrote in a message to His Majesty King Abdullah.
In addition to the long-standing personal friendship that the Aga Khan and his family share with the Royal House of Jordan, the Aga Khan and King Hussein have, over the years, joined together in efforts to revitalise and promote wider and deeper understanding of Islam's cultural and intellectual heritage. King Hussein opened the Seminar held by the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in Amman in 1980 and members of the Jordanian Royal Family have presided at and attended events held under the auspices of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture during the 1980s and 1990s.