Pakistan and the Maldives are moving towards stronger economic and tourism cooperation, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif calling for the establishment of direct flights between the two countries to improve connectivity and support growing bilateral relations.
Addressing the Maldives-Pakistan Business Forum 2026, attended by Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the prime minister described the president’s visit as an opportunity to strengthen trade, investment and cooperation between the two countries.
A major outcome highlighted during the forum was the commitment to increase bilateral trade from $13 million to $200 million over the next two years. Prime Minister Shehbaz urged business communities, exporters and investors from both countries to develop practical plans and work together to achieve the target.
He also announced that Pakistan would send a delegation of experienced exporters, government ministers and relevant officials to Malé following President Muizzu’s visit to explore further opportunities for trade and investment.
Direct Flights on the Connectivity Agenda
A key focus of the discussions was the absence of direct air services between Pakistan and the Maldives. The prime minister emphasised that improved air connectivity would be essential to strengthening business relations, facilitating travel and supporting tourism exchanges.
He directed the Ministry of Aviation to explore arrangements for launching direct flights between the two countries as soon as possible. President Muizzu also instructed the Maldivian national airline to prepare a plan for starting flight operations to Pakistan.
The proposed air link could create new opportunities for tourism operators, travel companies and hospitality businesses by making travel between the two destinations more convenient. It could also support business travel, strengthen people-to-people connections and encourage greater exchange between the two countries.
Maritime Links to Support Trade
Alongside aviation, maritime connectivity was identified as another important requirement for achieving the bilateral trade target. Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the need for a direct shipping schedule connecting Karachi or Gwadar with Malé to facilitate more efficient movement of goods.
The discussions reflected a broader approach to strengthening Pakistan-Maldives relations through coordinated improvements in air and sea transport, trade facilitation and private-sector engagement.
President Muizzu’s visit, the first by a Maldivian leader to Pakistan in 11 years, was also described as an opportunity to deepen diplomatic and economic engagement.
If implemented, the proposed air connectivity could open new possibilities for tourism and hospitality cooperation, while improved shipping links could strengthen commercial exchanges between the two countries.
