The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) has conferred an honorary doctorate in Politics and International Relations on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, recognising his public service, leadership and contributions to the socio-economic development of the Maldives.
The degree was awarded on Wednesday during the university’s 13th Special Convocation, held at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad, in recognition of Muizzu’s leadership, governance reforms, commitment to Islamic values and service to the Muslim Ummah.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presented the honorary degree to Muizzu on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari, who serves as Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of IIUI. The ceremony was attended by members of the Pakistani federal cabinet, Muizzu’s delegation, university officials and senior government representatives.
Reading the citation, IIUI Vice President for Academics Dr Nadeem Ahmed Sheikh highlighted Muizzu’s efforts to strengthen national institutions and promote justice, equality and Islamic values.
In his remarks, Muizzu said the honour was not his alone, but also belonged to the Maldivian people and reflected the longstanding friendship between the Maldives and Pakistan.
“Although it has been given to me, it is the people of the Maldives who have earned it,” Muizzu said, adding that the award also honoured the friendship shared by the two countries.
Muizzu also highlighted the importance of moral responsibility in a world continuing to face conflict, injustice and human suffering, commending IIUI for promoting the advancement of faith and knowledge together in the service of humanity.
He said the Maldives believed that a nation’s dignity was not determined by its size or military and economic strength, stressing that every country and its people deserved respect and dignity.
Muizzu expressed hope that relations between the Maldives and Pakistan would continue to strengthen, as his state visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The honorary doctorate comes as the two nations seek to deepen bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors during the ongoing state visit.
