Islamabad: The leaders of Maldives and Pakistan have committed to enhancing economic relations by significantly increasing bilateral trade and improving connectivity, as announced at the Maldives-Pakistan Business Forum 2026. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu shared their visions for strengthening trade and investment between the two nations during their addresses at the forum.

According to Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of developing a concrete action plan to boost trade and investment. He announced an ambitious goal to raise bilateral trade from the current $13 million to $200 million within the next two years through collaborative efforts. To achieve this, a Pakistani delegation, including businesspeople and government officials, will visit the Maldives next week to explore potential opportunities.

The Prime Minister further stressed the necessity of establishing direct flights and maritime connections to facilitate trade. Both governments have initiated steps to ensure reliable shipping routes from Karachi to Male or Gwadar. President Mohamed Muizzu echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significance of maritime connectivity for the Maldives as an island nation.

President Muizzu called for transforming the strong bilateral friendship into an era of economic cooperation, suggesting collaboration in sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure, banking, agriculture, and technology. He encouraged companies from both countries to explore direct and commercially viable shipping and aviation connections.

To support these initiatives, President Muizzu announced plans for Maldivian, the national airline, to establish a direct air link between Male and Karachi, aiming to ease travel and create new opportunities for trade and tourism.