Islamabad: The First Lady of Pakistan, Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari, and the First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, Sajidha Mohamed, underscored the significance of women’s empowerment, youth development, and enhanced people-to-people engagement as foundational elements of the Pakistan-Maldives bilateral relationship during a meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

According to Press Information Department, Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari welcomed her Maldivian counterpart, expressing hope that the visit would strengthen the bonds of friendship, mutual respect, shared values, and Islamic brotherhood between the two nations. She highlighted the expanding bilateral cooperation in areas such as education, healthcare, culture, and youth development. Emphasizing the shared commitment of both countries, she noted the importance of advancing women’s participation in public life and creating educational opportunities, particularly through vocational training and leadership development.

Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari also commended Sajidha Mohamed’s professional contributions, particularly her role at the Maldives Food and Drug Authority and her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting concluded with both First Ladies agreeing to bolster cooperation in women’s leadership, education, skills development, and other sectors. Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed her focus on women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation, and maternal and child health, highlighting initiatives like the Benazir Income Support Programme and the Benazir Nashonuma Programme.

The First Ladies also stressed the importance of collaboration between institutions and civil society organizations working for the welfare of women, children, and youth, agreeing that sustained engagement could deepen the friendship between the two countries, translating shared aspirations into tangible benefits.