Pakistan and the Maldives have agreed to increase their Pakistan Maldives bilateral trade
from $13.9 million to $200 million within two years. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced
this goal during a meeting with Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in Pakistan.
The announcement came during President Muizzu’s three-day state visit to Pakistan. During the
visit, both countries signed 20 agreements to improve cooperation and build stronger relations.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the current trade level was much lower than the two
countries could achieve. He expressed hope that better cooperation would help businesses
grow and create new economic opportunities.

President Muizzu’s visit was the first by a Maldivian president to Pakistan in 11 years. It also
marked 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The agreements cover several important areas, including healthcare, education, information
technology, agriculture, tourism, and defence. Both countries also plan to work together on
artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fisheries, environmental protection, and technical training.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the close connection between Pakistan and the Maldives in
education and healthcare. He said many Maldivian students had received education in Pakistan
over the years. Around 250 Pakistani doctors and paramedical staff are also working in the
Maldives.

Pakistan offered further professional support and technical knowledge to help the Maldives.
Both sides also discussed cooperation in information technology and data centre development.
Environmental protection was another important topic during the visit. Pakistan agreed to
provide 100,000 olive cuttings and 100,000 seeds of other plant species. This support will help
the Maldives move forward with its plan to plant five million trees.

President Muizzu welcomed the trade target and showed interest in increasing investment,
tourism, and travel connections. He also highlighted scholarships and professional training as
useful opportunities for young people.

The leaders discussed regional issues, including Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir. They also
stressed the importance of maintaining strong relations and working together on shared
concerns.

The agreements provide an opportunity for both countries to improve trade and support
development. Their success will depend on practical steps and continued cooperation to
achieve the $200 million target.

Source: Original news report about the Pakistan–Maldives state visit and bilateral agreements.

Razia khan