MALE, Maldives: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif reached Male on Tuesday on a three-day official to the Republic of Maldives which is in line with Pakistan’s pro-active policy of engagement with the regional Countries.
Upon his arrival, the prime minister was accorded a warm reception. He was warmly greeted by the Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom and First Lady at the President Office at the official welcome ceremony.
The prime minister was accompanied by First Lady Kalsum Nawaz, Adviser to PM on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz and high officials.
His visit is being undertaken on the invitation of the President of Republic of Maldives.
During his visit, the prime minister will participate at the celebrations of the 52nd Independence Day of Maldives on July 26 as the Chief Guest. He will also hold official talks with the Maldivian president.
The two leaders would also a sign number of Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) and agreements for cooperation in various fields after the talks.
“Pakistan attaches high importance to its relations with the Maldives which are characterized by cordiality, mutual respect and commonality of interests. Diplomatic relations with Maldives, established on 26th July, 1966, have grown from strength to strength,” said the press release issued by the Foreign Office on Monday.
The Foreign Office said that both Pakistan and Maldives closely coordinate with each other at regional and international fora on issues of mutual importance. Their relationship is marked by close and warm sentiments between the people of the two Countries.
The visit of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will provide impetus to further strengthen Pakistan’s bilateral relations with Maldives in all areas including political, trade, economic, defence, tourism, education and people to people contacts.