Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif of Pakistan, in his statement at the official talks between the Maldives and Pakistan, said that his Government is committed to further strengthening bilateral ties based on cordiality, mutual respect and common interests.
Mapping out the future of bilateral relations with the Maldives, Prime Minister Sharif noted that trade, tourism and human resource development are potential areas for focused cooperation in the future.
Noting that the current trade volume of 8.5 million USD is far below potential, the Pakistani Prime Minister exchanged views with President Yameen on improving shipping links and better coordination between key commercial sectors of the two countries. Highlighting that the People’s Majlis complex of the Maldives which he had had the pleasure of inaugurating in 1996, stood as a lasting reminder of the close friendly ties between the neighbourly countries, Prime Minister Sharif pledged an assistance of USD three million towards the proposed renovation of the People’s Majlis complex.
Furthermore, the Pakistani Prime Minister also pledged USD 1.2 million towards the fund launched by the Government during the water crisis in Male’. He also announced that Pakistan would double its existing credit line to the Maldives for military support and assistance.
At the Official Talks held this afternoon at the Prime Minister’s house in Islamabad, President Yameen noted that, as fellow Muslim countries and neighbours in SAARC, the Maldives had strong and special affection for Pakistan. He emphasised that the two countries shared lots of commonalities and welcomed Pakistan’s commitment to self-actualisation through prosperity by Trade and Commerce.
In his statement President Yameen highlighted Pakistan’s important role in the realisation of the long-held dream for strong regional bloc. He also spoke on the continued cooperation and support between the two countries in regional and multilateral forums.
President Yameen welcomed Prime Minister Sharif’s zero tolerance approach in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism and noted that Pakistan’s improved relations with all neighbouring countries would benefit the entire SAARC family.
The two leaders strongly condemned the scourge of global terrorism and in particular the actions of the so-called Islamic State (IS). On this point, the Maldivian President and the Pakistani Prime Minister pledged to work closely in ensuring that the IS were given no room to spread their venom in the region.
President Yameen thanked Prime Minister Shareef for his generous assistance extended to the Maldives over the years and his pledge to step up developmental support in the areas of health, education and the development of the Foreign Service and the Military. President Yameen also recalled Pakistan’s speedy assistance in the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami.
President Yameen invited Prime Minister Sharif to make an official visit to the Maldives this year, to join the festivities of the Golden Jubilee independence celebrations during the year. The Prime Minister said that he had very fond memories of his two previous visits to the Maldives, and that he would be happy to visit the Maldives again this year at a mutually convenient date.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said he had deep respect for former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, whom he saw as a brother and a friend. He noted in particular the firm stand President Maumoon has taken in supporting him during the time he was in solitary confinement and exile. He added that, he therefore was looking forward to personally thanking President Gayoom during his visit to the Maldives.
