ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani met with Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Thursday, 22 October 2026, in Islamabad to discuss strengthening longstanding bilateral ties, enhancing trade and economic cooperation, and promoting parliamentary diplomacy between Pakistan and Maldives.

Key Points

• Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu held discussions to bolster bilateral relations.
• The year 2026 will mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Maldives.
• Opportunities were identified for expanding Pakistani exports, including pharmaceuticals, textiles, and various food items.
• Both leaders underscored the importance of improved air and maritime connectivity to boost trade and investment.
• They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through sustained high-level engagement.

Deepening Bilateral Relations

During the meeting, Chairman of the Senate, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, affirmed that Pakistan and Maldives share close, friendly relations founded on mutual trust, respect, and shared interests. He highlighted that 2026 would commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, presenting a significant opportunity to further deepen cooperation between the two nations.

Senator Talha Mahmood, Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Defence; Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman, Chairman Standing Committee on Interior; Senator Agha Shahzaib Durrani, Chairman Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs; and Senate Secretary Syed Hasnain Haider, along with other senior officials, were present during the discussions.

Chairman Gilani emphasised the importance of parliamentary exchanges, friendship groups, and closer coordination between standing committees to strengthen institutional ties and foster mutual understanding.

Boosting Economic and Human Resource Cooperation

Gilani also pointed out significant opportunities to expand Pakistani exports to Maldives, specifically in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, rice, cement, meat, fruits, and vegetables. He stressed that improved air and maritime connectivity could further facilitate trade, investment and economic activity, a proposal with which President Muizzu concurred and appreciated.

Furthermore, Chairman Gilani underscored the substantial potential for cooperation in education, healthcare, youth development, and overall human resource development. He reiterated that enhanced people-to-people and cultural exchanges would further solidify the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Maldives.

Commitment to Regional Stability

Discussing broader regional and global developments, Chairman Senate Gilani stated that Pakistan remains steadfast in its commitment to peace and stability. He highlighted Pakistan’s constructive role in efforts to de-escalate tensions between Iran and the United States, affirming the country’s responsible approach in promoting regional and international peace.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed Maldives’ strong commitment to its friendly relations with Pakistan and expressed keen interest in further expanding parliamentary, diplomatic, and economic cooperation. He acknowledged investment opportunities in Pakistan and lauded the country’s efforts to promote peace and reduce international tensions.

Both sides collectively reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through sustained high-level engagement, parliamentary exchanges, increased trade and investment, and stronger people-to-people contacts. President Muizzu concluded by extending an invitation to Chairman Senate Gilani to visit Maldives.