The Maldives and Pakistan have reached agreements covering 20 key areas of cooperation during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s official visit to Pakistan, marking a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

The agreements aim to expand existing partnerships and establish new avenues for cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including education, trade, tourism, defence, technology, healthcare and aviation.

Among the agreements are two focused on education. These include cooperation in technical and vocational education and training, as well as an agreement between the Maldives’ Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development and Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission.

The two governments have also agreed to strengthen cooperation in youth development and sports, culture and heritage, environmental protection, agriculture, maritime security, fisheries and social protection.

Additional areas of cooperation include information technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital skills, innovation and entrepreneurship. The countries have also agreed to work together to combat trafficking and the illicit drug trade.

In the healthcare sector, an agreement has been signed between the Maldives Food and Drug Authority and Pakistan’s Drug Regulatory Authority to strengthen collaboration.

Public service development is another focus, with two agreements established between the Maldives Civil Service Commission and Pakistan’s Federal Public Service Commission.

Police training will also be strengthened through an agreement between the Maldives National College of Policing and Law Enforcement and the Pakistan Police Academy.

To support the Maldives’ essential supply needs, a further agreement has been signed between the State Trading Organization (STO) and the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP).

The countries are also looking to expand air connectivity, tourism and broader economic engagement as part of efforts to deepen their longstanding partnership.

The agreements were established during a special official ceremony held in Pakistan as part of President Muizzu’s visit.

The visit carries added significance as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Pakistan, established on 26 July 1966.

With cooperation spanning 20 key areas, the agreements set out a broad framework for the two countries to strengthen institutional ties, develop new partnerships and pursue opportunities for mutual benefit.