President Zardari stresses deeper trade, investment ties with Maldives

President Asif Ali Zardari called for stronger commercial, investment and people-to-people links between Pakistan and the Maldives during talks with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Islamabad on October 22. Mettis Global reported that the visit coincides with 60 years of diplomatic relations and that Zardari said it had added momentum to bilateral ties. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Maldivian priorities including education, healthcare, skills development and social protection.

The leaders discussed expanding cooperation and welcomed the current direction of relations. Zardari cited Pakistan’s earlier support for the Maldives, including construction of its Parliament building and a School of Medicine in Malé, and offered cooperation on climate resilience and environmental protection, including Muizzu’s tree-planting initiative. They also addressed climate risks for vulnerable states, peaceful dispute resolution and support for Palestinian statehood. The talks were followed by a banquet hosted by Zardari for Muizzu and his delegation.