PM Shehbaz vows to strengthen Maldives ties for 'all time to come'; 20 MoUs signed

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Wednesday his commitment to enhance Pakistan's relationship with the Maldives, as President Dr Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Islamabad for a three-day visit. This marks the first such visit to Pakistan in 11 years, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 1966. During the visit, 20 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two nations, covering a wide range of areas.

Prime Minister Shehbaz addressed the press, expressing his warmest greetings to the people of Maldives and their nation, known for its vast spirit like the ocean that surrounds it. Both leaders discussed various important issues, including economic and trade relations, strategic defense cooperation, and support for training Maldivian individuals in Pakistan.

They also announced plans to increase bilateral trade from $13.9 million to $200 million within two years. In addition, Pakistan pledged to support Maldives in promoting the plantation of 5 million trees by providing 100,000 olive cuttings and 100,000 seeds of various plant species. The MoUs signed addressed defense cooperation, maritime security, information technology, cybersecurity, combating illicit trafficking, social protection, health, recruitment of health professionals, promotion of vocational training, youth and sports development, air connectivity, police academies, and various other fields.

The Maldivian president was also conferred with an honorary doctorate in politics by the International Islamic University Islamabad, recognizing his leadership and public service.