The High Commissioner-designate of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, H.E Vice Admiral Ather Mukhtar (Retd), presented his credentials to H.E President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at a ceremony held this afternoon at the President’s Office. Afterwards, the President and High Commissioner spoke on progressing bilateral relations between the two countries, that have long endured on the basis of our common values and faith.

President Solih noted that he recently had the pleasure of speaking with the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, over the telephone, during which both leaders discussed issues of mutual importance and their countries’ respective experiences regarding the ongoing pandemic, Covid-19. He relayed his best wishes to the Prime Minister, and praised Pakistan’s government for their success in containing the disease. The President also expressed his condolences to all those in Pakistan who continue to be affected by the heavy monsoon rains occurring in the country.

Ending the call, the President expressed his eagerness to work with the new High Commissioner to further the partnership between the two countries. He also expressed his gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for their past and ongoing assistance to the Maldives, especially in the fields of youth development, health and education.