ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the relevant authorities to launch direct flights between Karachi and the Maldives as Pakistan and the island nation seek to strengthen economic ties and expand bilateral trade.
The announcement was made during the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum, attended by Shehbaz Sharif, Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and senior officials from both countries.
The two sides also announced plans to increase bilateral trade from the current $13 million to $200 million, signalling a renewed push to deepen commercial cooperation and explore new investment opportunities.
Agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation were signed during the forum, although details of the individual agreements were not immediately provided in the announcement.
Direct flights to improve connectivity
The proposed direct air link between Karachi and the Maldives is expected to improve connectivity, facilitate business travel and support tourism between the two countries.
Improved air connectivity can help business representatives travel more conveniently, strengthen commercial contacts and encourage greater movement of tourists.
For Pakistan, direct flights could also create opportunities for airlines, travel companies, hotels and other tourism-related businesses, subject to demand and the operational arrangements finalised by the relevant authorities.
The launch of the service will require coordination among aviation authorities and airlines, including decisions on routes, schedules, commercial viability and operational requirements.
No launch date or airline details were announced in the information provided.
Bilateral trade target set at $200 million
Pakistan and the Maldives have set an ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade from $13 million to $200 million.
Achieving the target would require a substantial expansion in commercial exchanges, supported by stronger business links, improved market access and greater participation by companies from both countries.
The business forum provided a platform for business representatives and officials to discuss cooperation and identify potential opportunities across different sectors.
Stronger trade relations could help Pakistani businesses explore demand in the Maldivian market, while companies from the Maldives could benefit from closer commercial engagement with Pakistan.
However, reaching the proposed target will depend on the identification of viable products and services, business partnerships and effective follow-up on the agreements reached.
Maldives invites Pakistani companies
Addressing the forum, President Mohamed Muizzu invited Pakistani companies to introduce new technologies in the Maldives.
He highlighted economic opportunities in sectors including education and tourism, encouraging businesses from both countries to explore areas of mutual interest.
The Maldives, an island nation with a tourism-oriented economy, offers potential opportunities for cooperation in hospitality, services, education and technology.
Pakistani companies could explore opportunities in these areas by developing partnerships with local businesses and assessing the requirements of the Maldivian market.
The invitation also points to the potential for cooperation beyond traditional trade, particularly in services, technical expertise and investment.
Maritime shipping also highlighted
Shehbaz Sharif emphasised the importance of maritime shipping between Pakistan and the Maldives, highlighting another area for strengthening bilateral connectivity.
Maritime transport can play an important role in facilitating cargo movement and supporting trade between countries separated by sea.
Improved shipping arrangements could help businesses manage logistics more efficiently, although the benefits would depend on cargo volumes, freight costs, port facilities and the availability of commercially viable services.
Closer cooperation in maritime transport, alongside the proposed direct air link, could provide additional channels for developing trade and business relations.
A new phase in economic relations
The announcements at the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum reflect efforts by both countries to broaden their economic partnership through improved connectivity, trade expansion and investment cooperation.
The proposed increase in bilateral trade to $200 million represents a significant target, while direct flights could help strengthen business and tourism links if introduced successfully.
The next steps will involve implementing the agreements, identifying investment projects and establishing practical arrangements for air and maritime connectivity.
Successful implementation could open new opportunities for businesses in both countries and help translate the diplomatic engagement into stronger commercial ties.