ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered a rapid feasibility study for direct flights between Pakistan and the Maldives on Thursday.
President Mohamed Muizzu said the Maldives plans a Malé-Karachi service soon. Sharif directed aviation authorities to work on the proposed air links.
The study will consider Pakistan International Airlines and other domestic carriers. He said the Civil Aviation Authority would invite a Maldivian delegation to Pakistan to discuss arrangements.
Muizzu said Maldivian, his country’s national airline, plans to connect Malé and Karachi. He said the service could support travel, trade and tourism.
Sharif also called for regular sea links between the two countries. He proposed shipping services connecting Malé with Karachi or Gwadar.
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Better transport links form part of plans to raise bilateral trade to USD 200 million. Sharif urged businesses to turn the target into practical projects.
Muizzu identified agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure and renewable energy as potential investment areas. He also invited Pakistani pharmaceutical and construction companies to explore opportunities in the Maldives.
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His government aims to generate 33 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2028. A Pakistani delegation of government officials and business representatives is due to visit Malé within a week.
