President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said that his state visit to Pakistan has established a strong foundation for a new and more ambitious phase of bilateral relations between the Maldives and Pakistan, with both countries agreeing to deepen cooperation across trade, investment and a broad range of strategic sectors.
The President made the remarks following the conclusion of his three-day state visit to Pakistan from 20 to 22 October, accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and a high-level Maldivian delegation. The visit was particularly significant as it marked the first state visit by a Maldivian President to Pakistan in a decade and coincided with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During the visit, President Muizzu held high-level engagements with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior Pakistani officials, with discussions focused on strengthening the longstanding friendship between the two nations and expanding practical cooperation. The engagements resulted in new agreements and initiatives aimed at creating greater opportunities for businesses, investors and institutions in both countries.
A major economic outcome of the visit was the shared commitment to increase bilateral trade from the current USD 13 million to USD 200 million within the next two years. President Muizzu described the target as an important part of the renewed partnership, reflecting the determination of both governments to transform strong political relations into measurable economic benefits.
The President also highlighted the successful Maldives–Pakistan Business Forum, which he addressed alongside Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The forum provided a platform for business leaders and investors from both countries to explore new commercial opportunities and establish stronger private-sector partnerships. President Muizzu said the forum had created an important foundation for translating the ambitious trade target into concrete investments, stronger business relationships and meaningful economic cooperation.
Further demonstrating the expanding scope of bilateral cooperation, 20 Memorandums of Understanding were exchanged during the visit. The agreements cover several areas of mutual interest and are expected to facilitate closer institutional cooperation while opening new avenues for economic and developmental engagement. President Muizzu said the agreements demonstrated the commitment of both countries to move beyond aspirations and deliver practical and measurable results.
Reflecting on the hospitality extended to the Maldivian delegation, President Muizzu expressed his heartfelt appreciation to President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Government of Pakistan and the Pakistani people for the warm reception accorded to him, the First Lady and the delegation throughout the visit.
The President described the visit as a defining moment in Maldives–Pakistan relations, saying the two countries had agreed to “turn a new leaf” and begin a new era of partnership. He said the Government’s engagement with Pakistan reflects its wider foreign policy objective of strengthening constructive international partnerships that can generate tangible benefits for the Maldivian people and support national development.
As he departed Islamabad, President Muizzu expressed confidence that the agreements, discussions and economic commitments made during the visit would further strengthen the six decades of friendship between the Maldives and Pakistan. He said the two countries now have a renewed shared vision and determination to build a stronger, more dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership for the future.
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