ISLAMABAD, September 24, 2026: Pakistan and Maldives have underscored the need to strengthen parliamentary exchanges and expand cooperation in trade, investment, education, defence, tourism and climate change.
Acting Chairman Senate Syedaal Khan Nasar met Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives Abdul Raheem Abdullah and his parliamentary delegation at a local hotel in Islamabad, according to a Senate Secretariat statement.
Nasar said relations between the two countries were rooted in mutual trust, respect, shared interests and Islamic brotherhood. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and cooperation within SAARC, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the United Nations.
Highlighting the role of parliamentary diplomacy, he called for more exchanges between the two legislatures to promote mutual understanding and institutional cooperation.
The Acting Chairman Senate said improved direct air and maritime connectivity, greater market access and private sector participation could help expand bilateral trade. He identified textiles, rice, cement, food products and pharmaceuticals as areas with export potential.
He also advocated greater opportunities for Maldivian students at Pakistani universities, particularly in medicine, engineering, pharmacy and dentistry.
Both countries, he said, could benefit from closer cooperation in climate research, capacity building, defence training and maritime security.
Abdul Raheem Abdullah said Maldives deeply valued its fraternal relationship with Pakistan and wanted to broaden cooperation across key sectors. He thanked Pakistan for its assistance during difficult times and its development support, including its contribution to the Parliament building in Malé.
Both sides expressed satisfaction with existing cooperation and emphasized exploring new avenues to strengthen bilateral relations. Pakistani parliamentarians, members of the Maldivian delegation and senior Senate Secretariat officials attended the meeting.
