President Muizzu arrives in Pakistan, says strong ties will pave way for sustainable development

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has arrived in Pakistan on a state visit, expressing hope that the historic friendship between the Maldives and Pakistan will be further strengthened, opening avenues for sustainable development in both countries. The President and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed landed in Islamabad on Tuesday night, 20 October 2026, at the special invitation of Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. In a post on X shortly after arrival, President Muizzu thanked the government and people of Pakistan for the warm welcome. He said the close ties between the two nations will create opportunities for economic and social progress. The President was received at the airport by a high-level Pakistani delegation, and a 21-gun salute was fired in his honour. During the visit, the President is scheduled to hold official talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and call on President Asif Ali Zardari. A business forum with 300 participants is also planned. According to the President’s Office, several ministers, MPs and senior officials are accompanying the President. Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry earlier said that the two sides are expected to sign around 12 agreements covering trade, investment, health, education, climate change, tourism, civil aviation, and defence. President’s Office spokesperson Mohamed Hussain ‘Mundhu’ confirmed the business forum. The visit aims to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors.