Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has held high-level talks with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, in Islamabad, as the two countries seek to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation across key sectors.

During the meeting, Dar conveyed greetings and best wishes from Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to President Muizzu. He also underscored the importance of further strengthening the longstanding friendship between the Maldives and Pakistan.

Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in trade and investment, education, climate change and tourism, with both sides highlighting opportunities to deepen engagement and build stronger ties.

President Muizzu expressed his appreciation for Pakistan’s hospitality and reaffirmed his interest in exploring new opportunities to enhance cooperation between the two countries.

The President’s Office has also announced that several agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors are expected to be signed during the visit.

The visit marks the first time a Maldivian president has travelled to Pakistan in a decade, making it a significant moment in bilateral relations.

It also coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Pakistan, which were established on 26 July 1966.

President Muizzu is accompanied on the visit by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, members of the Cabinet and senior government officials.

The visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to the longstanding partnership between the two countries, with a focus on expanding cooperation and identifying new avenues for mutual benefit.