ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the Maldives are moving toward establishing direct air services between the two countries after their leaders called for stronger transport links to support tourism, trade and investment.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that he had directed Pakistan’s civil aviation authorities to prepare a feasibility study for launching direct flights to the Maldives.
Speaking at the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum in Islamabad on October 22, the prime minister said improved air connectivity was essential for expanding economic cooperation.
The proposed services could be operated by Pakistan International Airlines or another Pakistani carrier, depending on the outcome of the study.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu also announced that his country’s national airline, Maldivian, aims to establish direct flights between Malé and Karachi.
The proposed route would make travel easier for tourists and businesspeople, who currently lack direct scheduled air connections between the two countries.
Sharif said Pakistani aviation authorities would invite a delegation from the Maldives to discuss arrangements for launching the services as soon as possible.
The announcement follows discussions between the two governments on increasing bilateral trade from approximately $13 million to $200 million over the next two years.
Pakistan also plans to send a delegation of business representatives and government officials to the Maldives to identify trade and investment opportunities.
Both countries have highlighted the potential for cooperation in tourism, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, construction, renewable energy and financial services.
The leaders also emphasised the importance of direct maritime connections between Karachi or Gwadar and Malé to improve cargo movement.
A direct passenger route could create new opportunities for Pakistan’s tourism industry while providing travellers with easier access to the Maldives.
The start of operations will depend on feasibility assessments, regulatory arrangements and decisions by participating airlines.