Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has called for closer economic cooperation between Pakistan and the Maldives, highlighting opportunities to expand trade, investment, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
President Zardari made the remarks during an official meeting with Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the Pakistani President’s official residence, as part of President Muizzu’s ongoing state visit to Pakistan. President Zardari welcomed his Maldivian counterpart, and the two leaders reviewed bilateral relations and explored ways to strengthen cooperation across various sectors.
Emphasising the potential for deeper economic engagement, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Maldives in key areas, including healthcare, education, human resource development, social protection and sustainable development.
He described relations between the two countries as longstanding brotherly ties founded on shared faith, mutual respect, solidarity and a commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty. He also noted that President Muizzu’s visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Maldives, providing an important opportunity to renew their commitment to closer partnership.
President Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s contributions to the Maldives, including assistance in the construction of the Maldives Parliament building and the School of Medicine at the Maldives National University (MNU).
Climate change and its impact on vulnerable developing island nations were also discussed during the meeting. Both leaders stressed the need for stronger cooperation to enhance climate resilience and promote sustainable development. President Zardari expressed confidence that Pakistan would support President Muizzu’s Five Million Trees Programme.
The two Presidents further emphasised the importance of maintaining dialogue and consultation to strengthen bilateral relations. They also reaffirmed their commitment to addressing regional and international issues in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
On the international front, the leaders called for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state in line with relevant United Nations resolutions.
Following the official meeting, President Zardari hosted a special banquet in honour of President Muizzu and the Maldivian delegation.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and other senior civilian and military officials attended the banquet.
