President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has received an honorary doctorate in Political Science and International Relations from the International Islamic University Islamabad, recognising his contributions to public service, institutional development and the advancement of the Maldives’ national interests.
The honour was conferred during a special ceremony presided over by Pakistan Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at his official residence in Islamabad, as President Muizzu continued his state visit to Pakistan with First Lady Sajidha Mohamed. The university’s Director, Professor Dr Saad Al Ahmed, presented the degree to the Maldivian President on behalf of the institution.
In his address after receiving the honour, President Muizzu expressed profound gratitude, describing the recognition as a source of pride that exceeded what he had imagined when he received his PhD in civil engineering 17 years ago.
He said the honour carried a significance beyond personal achievement, emphasising that it belonged to the people of the Maldives and reflected the longstanding friendship between the Maldives and Pakistan. He added that the recognition was closely connected to the responsibilities he carried as Head of State.
President Muizzu stressed that a nation’s worth could not be measured by its geographical size, noting that the Maldives’ small land area did not diminish its value or international standing. Similarly, he said, integrity could not be measured by a country’s economic or military strength.
He emphasised that every nation deserved dignity and respect and that every citizen should be treated with honour. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring that every generation had the opportunity to leave behind a peaceful and just world.
Referring to the challenges facing the international community, President Muizzu noted that, despite unprecedented technological advancements, the world continued to experience wars, injustice and human suffering. He stressed the responsibility of leaders to speak out against such challenges.
The President also underscored the importance of advancing faith and knowledge together, ensuring that academic achievements and learning served humanity. He said the Maldives remained committed to upholding these principles.
Concluding his remarks, President Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to honouring its agreements with Pakistan and working towards a stronger future founded on knowledge, faith and service.
The award marks the second time President Muizzu has received an honorary degree from an internationally recognised Islamic university. During an official visit to Malaysia last year, the International Islamic University Malaysia conferred on him an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in recognition of his Islamic leadership and contributions to civilisational development.
During the ongoing state visit, President Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed also visited the Maldives High Commission in Islamabad. They were welcomed by Maldives High Commissioner to Pakistan Mohamed Thoha and toured the diplomatic mission, signed the guestbook and met with High Commission staff. Members of the high-level Maldivian delegation accompanying the President also attended the visit.
As part of the programme, President Muizzu attended a luncheon hosted in his honour by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Cabinet ministers and senior government officials from both countries were present.
During their discussions, the two leaders focused on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring opportunities to expand cooperation between the Maldives and Pakistan. They also reflected on the longstanding friendship between the two countries and reaffirmed their commitment to working together on matters of mutual interest.
President Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed are undertaking the state visit from 20 to 22 October 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The visit has included high-level engagements aimed at further strengthening ties between the two countries, including the exchange of agreements covering 20 areas of cooperation.
