Pakistan and Maldives Agree to Expand Cooperation in Education and Healthcare

What happened

During a three-day state visit to Pakistan by Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Pakistan and the Maldives agreed to expand cooperation across several sectors [1]. The two nations signed 20 agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to strengthen bilateral relations [1]. These agreements cover various fields, including:

• Education [1]
• Healthcare [1]
• Tourism [1]
• Agriculture [1]
• Fisheries [1]
• Information technology [1]
• Youth development [1]
• Defense [1]

In the education sector, the countries agreed to expand youth exchanges and cooperation regarding skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership [1]. Regarding healthcare, the two sides discussed increasing opportunities for Maldivian medical professionals and students [1]. This includes increasing MBBS placements under Pakistan’s Technical Assistance Program and exploring internship opportunities in Pakistan for graduates from the Maldives [1].

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that approximately 250 Pakistani doctors and paramedics are currently serving in the Maldives [1]. He added that Pakistan is prepared to provide more professionals to assist with Maldivian healthcare needs [1]. President Muizzu said these agreements would create new avenues for cooperation and make bilateral relations more beneficial for the citizens of both countries [1].

Who is affected

• Maldivian students: They may benefit from increased MBBS placements under Pakistan’s Technical Assistance Program and new internship opportunities in Pakistan [1].
• Maldivian medical professionals: They are part of the discussions regarding expanded healthcare opportunities [1].
• Maldivian youth and professionals: The agreements aim to provide more cooperation in skills development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership [1].
• Athletes and coaches: Pakistan has a history of offering training opportunities and placements to Maldivian athletes and coaches [1].
• Pakistani medical professionals: Approximately 250 doctors and paramedics are already serving in the Maldives, with more potentially being sent [1].

During the visit, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed met with Pakistani officials, including Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry and Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar [2].