Islamabad, 21 October (H.S.): Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday night for a three-day state visit to Pakistan at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He was accompanied by his wife, Sajidha Mohamed, and a high-level delegation. President Muizzu and his wife received an official welcome at Islamabad International Airport, where they were accorded a 21-gun salute.

According to a report by The News, the Prime Minister’s Office said Dr Muizzu would receive an official welcome at the Prime Minister’s House on Wednesday. The Maldivian President is on a state visit to Pakistan from October 20 to 22.

During the visit, President Muizzu will meet Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, who will also host a state banquet in his honour.

A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office had earlier said that the two leaders would review all aspects of bilateral relations. They are also expected to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation in trade, investment, healthcare, education, tourism, agriculture, defence, maritime security, climate change and people-to-people exchanges.

The two leaders will also exchange views on regional and international developments of mutual interest.

The statement further noted that the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum would be held during the visit. This marks the first state visit to Pakistan by a Maldivian president in 11 years.

According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, the visit reflects the shared commitment of the two countries to further strengthen their bilateral partnership and explore new avenues of mutually beneficial cooperation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar