Pakistan, Maldives plan flights

PM terms step essential for closer bilateral relations

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said he had directed the Ministry of Aviation to explore ways to establish direct flights between Pakistan and the Maldives, as the two countries agreed to strengthen air connectivity and expand bilateral trade.

Addressing the Maldives-Pakistan Business Forum 2026, which was also attended by Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the prime minister expressed hope that the president's visit would prove a turning point in relations between the two countries.

"Above all, this will be a game-changer in terms of promoting our bilateral trade and investment portfolios," he said.

Addressing businessmen, entrepreneurs, traders and investors from both countries, the prime minister said Pakistan would send a delegation to Malé after President Muizzu's return, comprising experienced exporters, relevant government ministers and officials, to work towards expanding trade ties, adding that both countries would make additional efforts to meet the agreed target.

Highlighting the importance of connectivity, PM said there were currently no direct flights between Pakistan and the Maldives, making the establishment of an air link essential to closer bilateral relations.

"Connectivity is very important. We don't have direct flights from Malé to Karachi or Islamabad, so this air link is extremely important," he said.

The prime minister said he had directed the Ministry of Aviation to explore ways to launch flights between the two countries as soon as possible, adding that President Muizzu had also instructed his country's airline to prepare a plan to start flights to Pakistan.

He thanked President Muizzu for visiting Pakistan, noting that it was the first visit by a Maldivian leader in 11 years and expressed hope for continued high-level engagement.