Meeting of the Foreign Minister of Maldives with the Foreign Minister

H.E. Mr. Ahmed Naseem, Foreign Minister of Maldives who is currently on three days official visit to Pakistan, had talks with the Foreign Minister Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, today. The two Foreign Ministers discussed bilateral, regional and global issues. They expressed satisfaction over the existing warm and friendly relations between the two countries.

The Foreign Minister underscored that Pakistan greatly values its relations with Maldives which are based on shared values.

The two Ministers agreed that both countries would cooperate closely, bilaterally as well as under SAARC, to promote regional cooperation. While appreciating the progress made by SAARC in a number of areas, the two Ministers agreed that member states should deepen their economic relations further by concentrating on project-oriented cooperation under SAARC.

They agreed that the SAARC could provide an effective and viable mechanism for promotion of peace, development and progress of the region.

The Foreign Minister greatly appreciated the efforts being made by the Government of Maldives for hosting the 17th SAARC Summit in Addu City in November 2011. She offered all support and assistance to ensure the success of the Summit.

Islamabad
11 October, 2011

297/2011