President announces new chapter in Maldives-Pakistan ties following bilateral talks

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said the Maldives and Pakistan have agreed to begin a new chapter in their bilateral relations, focusing on cooperation in sectors that would benefit the people of both countries.

The President made the remarks on Wednesday following official talks with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his visit to Pakistan, which began on Tuesday and is scheduled to conclude on Thursday.

The two leaders held discussions before witnessing the exchange of 20 agreements between the Maldives and Pakistan. They subsequently delivered a joint statement outlining the outcomes of their talks.

President Muizzu said the agreements would provide opportunities for cooperation across several sectors and contribute to the development of both countries.

He highlighted ongoing discussions to resume air services between the Maldives and Pakistan, saying improved connectivity would support tourism and trade.

The President said the resumption of flights could particularly benefit the Maldives' halal tourism sector by facilitating travel between the two countries.

Trade and investment were also among the subjects discussed during the meeting.

President Muizzu expressed support for Prime Minister Sharif's proposal to increase bilateral trade from approximately USD 13 million to USD 200 million.

He said the Maldives-Pakistan Business Forum, scheduled for Thursday, would provide an opportunity for businesses from both countries to establish contacts and explore investment opportunities.

"When the Maldives-Pakistan Business Forum is held tomorrow, businesspeople from both countries will have the opportunity to come together, strengthen their connections and discuss investments that would benefit both sides," President Muizzu said.

The President also outlined discussions aimed at expanding opportunities for young people in both countries, including access to training and professional development.

The two leaders discussed cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technology and other technology-related fields, with an emphasis on training and skills development.

Healthcare education and professional training were also discussed.

President Muizzu said the Maldives and Pakistan had explored opportunities to expand educational and professional development pathways for Maldivian students and healthcare professionals.

These included increasing the number of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) opportunities available under the Pakistan Technical Assistance Programme and facilitating internships in Pakistan for Maldivian doctors.

The discussions form part of efforts to strengthen cooperation in education and healthcare, sectors in which Pakistan has maintained links with the Maldives for several decades.

President Muizzu said the outcomes of the visit reflected the two governments' intention to build on their existing relationship.

"Today, the Prime Minister and I have agreed to begin an entirely new chapter in the relationship between our two countries, building on the foundation of 60 years of relations between the Maldives and Pakistan," he said.

The Maldives and Pakistan are marking 60 years of diplomatic relations this year.

President Muizzu's visit, undertaken at the invitation of Prime Minister Sharif, is the first official visit to Pakistan by a Maldivian President in 11 years.