Pakistan, Maldives target $200m bilateral trade within two years

Pakistan and the Maldives have set a goal of lifting bilateral trade from $13.9 million to $200 million within two years. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the target on Wednesday during Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit, as the countries signed 20 agreements and memoranda covering economic, technological and defence cooperation.

The arrangements include trade in agricultural goods and food, alongside collaboration in information technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, fisheries, tourism and health. Pakistan also offered technical support for IT and data centres, while the two sides agreed on other initiatives in areas including air connectivity, training and environmental cooperation.

The leaders endorsed stronger investment and commercial ties, but Muizzu said the commitments need to be converted into practical benefits. The visit is the first by a Maldivian president to Pakistan in 11 years and coincides with 60 years of diplomatic relations.