The Maldives and Pakistan are marking 60 years of diplomatic relations as President Dr Mohamed Muizzu undertakes an official visit to Pakistan, highlighting six decades of cooperation built on shared Islamic values, mutual respect and longstanding bilateral ties.
Pakistan was among the countries the Maldives prioritised as it began establishing diplomatic relations with the international community following independence from British rule. Diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established in 1966, with Pakistan among the first 10 countries to establish such ties with the Maldives.
The relationship has developed through religious and cultural connections, educational cooperation, development assistance and practical support during times of crisis. Several key institutions and initiatives in the Maldives have benefited from Pakistan’s assistance over the decades.
One notable example is the country’s first legislative building, which was established with Pakistani assistance. The Maldives’ first medical college also represented a significant milestone in the development of the country’s education and healthcare sectors. The college’s first batch of students completed their MBBS degrees in 2024, while Maldivian students continue to have access to various educational opportunities in Pakistan.
Pakistan also provided assistance to the Maldives following the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004. During the disaster, more than 300 tourists stranded across resorts and inhabited islands were rescued with assistance from the Pakistan Navy.
The Maldives established its first embassy in Pakistan in July 2008, further strengthening diplomatic engagement between the two countries. Both nations are members of the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), providing additional platforms for cooperation on regional and international issues.
Speaking in a special interview with a local Journalist, President’s Office Chief Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu) described Pakistan as an important neighbour and longstanding partner of the Maldives.
He said the two countries share close ties because both are Muslim-majority nations and frequently hold similar positions on international issues.
“Whenever the Maldives faces a major challenge, Pakistan has been among the partners that provide assistance at the closest range, as quickly as possible and across the widest possible areas. Pakistan is also one of the countries we count among our development partners,” Mundhu said.
The Maldivian government has also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the relationship, describing the bilateral partnership as one founded on Islamic brotherhood, mutual respect and close cooperation. It said the Maldives remains ready to expand collaboration in areas of shared interest.
President Muizzu’s visit to Pakistan is part of his administration’s broader efforts under its ‘First Maldives’ policy to strengthen the country’s international partnerships. The visit is being held at the invitation of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and marks the first visit by a Maldivian head of state to Pakistan in 11 years.
During the visit, the two countries are scheduled to hold official talks aimed at deepening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across several sectors. Discussions are also expected to result in the signing of multiple agreements covering areas of mutual interest.
A Maldivian delegation comprising senior government officials is accompanying the President. A business forum is also scheduled to be held in Pakistan, with invitations extended to more than 300 participants, including investors and business representatives, to explore opportunities for trade and investment.
As the Maldives and Pakistan commemorate six decades of diplomatic relations, the visit provides an opportunity to build on their historical partnership and expand cooperation in areas that support the development priorities of both countries.
