Pakistan, Maldives Aim to Boost Bilateral Trade to $200 Million

Pakistan and the Maldives have pledged to boost bilateral trade to $200 million within the next two years, a significant increase from the current $13.4 million, Radio Pakistan, the state broadcaster, reported.

The leaders made this commitment during talks between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in Islamabad. The leaders reviewed bilateral relations, discussed regional and international developments, and agreed to expand cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, food security, pharmaceuticals, and private-sector partnerships. 

They also emphasized the need to improve air and maritime connectivity and convene the Joint Economic Commission soon. 

Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Maldives' national development priorities and offered to provide essential food commodities and pharmaceuticals. Shehbaz Sharif announced 20 additional undergraduate scholarships for Maldivian students and expanded healthcare cooperation. 

As part of the Maldives' 'Five Million Tree Initiative', Pakistan will provide 100,000 olive cuttings and 100,000 seeds of various plants over the next 12 months. 

The two leaders witnessed the exchange of 20 Memorandums of Understanding covering various areas, including health, education, and defence. They expressed satisfaction with the talks and stressed the importance of implementing the agreements. 

The Maldives President received an honorary PhD from the International Islamic University, Islamabad, and was hosted for a luncheon by the Prime Minister. The state visit marks 60 years of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Maldives and aims to strengthen their partnership, Radio Pakistan, the state broadcaster said in a statement.

The visit is significant as it coincides with 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Pakistan and the Maldives have a long-standing relationship, and this visit aims to strengthen and broaden their partnership. The agreements signed during the visit are expected to deliver tangible benefits for both countries.

The Maldives, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, has been working to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on fishing and tourism. Pakistan, with its strategic location and growing economy, is well-positioned to support the Maldives' development priorities. 

The two countries' commitment to increasing bilateral trade and cooperation could have a positive impact on their economies and relations.