Maldives and Pakistan sign 20 MOUs during Muizzu’s state visit

The Maldives and Pakistan signed 20 memorandums of understanding (MOUs) on Wednesday during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to Pakistan, covering cooperation in areas including aviation, health, defence and agriculture.

The signing ceremony took place at Prime Minister House, the official residence of Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in Islamabad.

The MOUs cover the resumption of air travel between the two countries, the construction of a medical school in the Maldives, cybersecurity, efforts to combat drug smuggling, and cooperation in social protection and healthcare.

Other areas include defence, maritime safety, fisheries and agriculture. An MOU was also signed for the import of agricultural products into the Maldives through the State Trading Organization (STO).

Further details of the MOUs have yet to be disclosed.

Earlier on Wednesday, Muizzu received a ceremonial welcome at Prime Minister House, where Sharif greeted him. Following an official photograph, the two leaders stood on the saluting dais as the national anthems of both countries were played and a presentation of arms was rendered. Muizzu then inspected the Guard of Honour.

The leaders subsequently took part in introductions between Pakistani officials and members of the Maldivian delegation.

Muizzu also participated in a tree-planting ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He watered the sapling and offered a silent prayer.

The state visit began on October 20 and will conclude on October 22. It is being undertaken at Sharif’s invitation.