Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu of the Republic of Maldives engaged in delegation-level talks, which culminated in the signing of 20 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing cooperation in multiple sectors.

According to Press Information Department, the discussions, held at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad, focused on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing regional and international issues. Economic cooperation was a key agenda, with both leaders agreeing to significantly boost bilateral trade from $13.4 million to $200 million over the next two years. They also discussed enhancing connectivity and the importance of convening the Joint Economic Commission.

The Prime Minister expressed Pakistan’s readiness to supply essential food commodities and pharmaceuticals to the Maldives and announced 20 annual undergraduate scholarships for Maldivian students. Moreover, Pakistan committed to supporting the Maldivian ‘Five Million Tree Initiative’ by providing olive cuttings and seeds, and assisting in setting up nurseries to produce a million plants in three years.

In addition, the leaders discussed regional peace and security, with an emphasis on dialogue and respect for international law. The meeting concluded with the exchange of MoUs in various fields including health, education, tourism, and defence.

The visit, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, also featured a ceremony where the International Islamic University, Islamabad, awarded President Muizzu an honorary PhD in “Politics and International Relations.”