Pakistan and Maldives Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Pakistan, Maldives discuss ways to strengthen bilateral ties
ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - September 24, 2026) Acting Chairman Senate Syedaal Khan Nasar and Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives Abdul Raheem Abdullah on Thursday discussed Pakistan-Maldives bilateral relations, parliamentary diplomacy, trade and investment, education, defence, tourism, climate change, people-to-people contacts, and other matters of mutual interest.
During a meeting with the Maldivian parliamentary delegation, Syedaal Khan Nasar stated that Pakistan-Maldives relations were firmly established on mutual respect, trust, shared interests, Islamic brotherhood, and longstanding friendly ties.
He emphasized Pakistan's commitment to its relations with Maldives, both bilaterally and within regional frameworks like SAARC, OIC, and the United Nations.
The Acting Chairman highlighted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering understanding, institutional cooperation, and people-to-people connections. He advocated for:
- Increased parliamentary exchanges
- Sharing legislative experiences
- Strengthening institutional partnerships between the two legislatures
He noted that Pakistan and Maldives possessed significant potential to expand trade and economic cooperation, suggesting enhanced direct air and maritime connectivity, improved market access, and greater private sector participation. He highlighted Pakistan's export potential in textiles, rice, cement, meat, vegetables, fruits, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors.
Syedaal Khan Nasar also emphasized providing more educational opportunities for Maldivian students in Pakistani universities, particularly in medicine, engineering, pharmacy, dentistry, and other professional fields.
Discussion on Climate Change:
Addressing climate change, he expressed concern over its adverse impacts on both countries and called for:
- Increased cooperation in climate-related research
- Exchange of experiences
- Capacity building
- Joint initiatives
He also stressed enhanced defense training, maritime security, and capacity building cooperation, asserting that stronger institutional partnerships in these areas would bolster mutual confidence and bilateral relations.
The Acting Chairman drew attention to the Parliament building in Malé as a symbol of enduring friendship and development cooperation between Pakistan and Maldives, citing Pakistan's contribution to its construction and support for other development projects.
Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdullah expressed Maldives' deep appreciation for its fraternal ties with Pakistan. He noted that bilateral relations had strengthened in recent years and expressed his country’s desire to further expand collaboration with Pakistan in trade, investment, education, defense, and diplomatic affairs.
He acknowledged Pakistan's constructive role on the international stage and praised its consistent support for Maldives during challenging times.