ISLAMABAD — President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said a new chapter has opened in relations between the Maldives and Pakistan, expressing confidence that agreements reached during his state visit will create new opportunities and deliver tangible benefits to people in both countries.
Speaking at a joint press statement following official talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Wednesday, Muizzu thanked Pakistan for its warm welcome and described the two countries’ relationship as one founded on shared faith and brotherhood.
“Today, a new chapter in the relationship between our two countries has opened. This is a relationship built on the foundation of 60 years of friendship,” Muizzu said.
He added that the agreements reached during the visit would strengthen bilateral cooperation and open new avenues for collaboration, creating greater opportunities, progress and benefits for the people of both countries.
Muizzu said the two sides had exchanged agreements covering 20 key areas, adding that the priority would be to translate those commitments into tangible outcomes for their citizens.
“There are many opportunities to further strengthen our relationship in ways that benefit both countries,” he said.
Direct flights, trade and tourism
Muizzu highlighted the potential for direct flights between the Maldives and Pakistan to strengthen trade and economic ties while supporting tourism, particularly the Maldives’ halal tourism sector.
He also pointed to a business forum scheduled to take place in Pakistan as an opportunity for investors, businesspeople and manufacturers from both countries to establish partnerships and explore investment opportunities.
Cooperation in technology and healthcare
The President said his discussions with Sharif had included expanding opportunities for young people, particularly through training in artificial intelligence, digital technology and other emerging fields.
Healthcare cooperation was another area of focus, with discussions covering expanded opportunities for Maldivian students and medical professionals. These included increasing MBBS placements under Pakistan’s Technical Assistance Programme and facilitating internship opportunities for Maldivian doctors in Pakistan.
Climate change and regional stability
Muizzu also welcomed Pakistan’s assistance in environmental protection and climate resilience, describing climate change as an issue directly linked to the Maldives’ security, development and future.
The two leaders further discussed regional stability and cooperation in international forums, including efforts to address ongoing conflicts in the Middle East through dialogue, reduce tensions and facilitate humanitarian assistance.
Muizzu praised Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to resolve regional disputes through dialogue and its work towards maintaining regional peace.
The President’s visit, taking place from October 20 to 22, marks a significant diplomatic engagement between the two countries as they seek to deepen longstanding ties and expand cooperation across trade, investment, tourism, education, healthcare and technology.
