ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday for a three-day state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, defence and other key sectors.
The visiting president was accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and a high-level delegation comprising cabinet ministers and senior officials. He received a ceremonial welcome at Islamabad International Airport, where a 21-gun salute was presented.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, President Muizzu will receive an official welcome at the Prime Minister’s House, where he is scheduled to hold discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The Maldives president will also meet President Asif Ali Zardari, who is expected to host a state banquet in his honour. Talks between the visiting delegation and Pakistani officials will focus on strengthening existing partnerships and identifying new areas of cooperation.
According to the Foreign Office, discussions will cover trade, investment, health, education, tourism, agriculture, defence, maritime security, climate change and people-to-people exchanges. The leaders will also exchange views on regional and international developments of mutual interest.
A key feature of the visit will be the Pakistan–Maldives Business Forum, which aims to bring together business communities from both countries to explore investment opportunities, strengthen commercial links and encourage private-sector partnerships.
Several agreements and memorandums of understanding are expected to be signed during the visit, covering different areas of bilateral cooperation.
The visit, scheduled from October 20 to 22, carries additional significance as it marks the first visit to Pakistan by a Maldivian president in 11 years. It also coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, established in 1966.
Pakistan and the Maldives maintain friendly relations based on mutual respect and cooperation at regional and international forums. The current diplomatic engagement is expected to provide an opportunity to broaden collaboration and establish new avenues for mutually beneficial partnerships.
