Pakistan congratulates Maldives for rejoining Commonwealth

In 2016, Maldives had angrily quit organisation over criticism of its human rights record

Pakistan on Saturday welcomed the readmission of Maldives to the Commonwealth, while felicitating its government and people on rejoining the group of 54 states after a period of 40 months.

In 2016, Maldives had angrily quit the organisation over criticism of its human rights record under former president Abdulla Yameen.

"Pakistan welcomes the readmission of Maldives to the Commonwealth and congratulates the government and the people of Maldives on rejoining the Commonwealth family," said a statement issued by Foreign Office spokesperson Aisha Farooqui.

"As a founding member of Commonwealth, Pakistan has been a strong supporter of Maldives’ readmission and it’s role as an important member of the organisation," she said.

Islamabad also acknowledged and greatly appreciated the role played by Maldives in other regional and international organisations.

"Pakistan remains committed to working closely with Maldives in achieving the shared objectives of peace, development and prosperity within the region and beyond," the statement concluded.