ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) conferred an honorary doctorate in Politics and International Relations on President of Maldives Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during a special ceremony in Islamabad, recognizing his distinguished public service, leadership, socio-economic advancement of his country, and contributions to the Muslim Ummah. The event highlighted deepening diplomatic engagements, much like those discussed during recent high-level diplomatic meetings such as Ishaq Dar Arrives in Dushanbe to Lead Pakistan’s Delegation at SCO Heads of Government Meeting.

Key Points

• IIUI conferred an honorary doctorate in Politics and IR on Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
• The award recognizes his public service, leadership, governance reforms, and support for the Muslim Ummah.
• The 13th Special Convocation took place at the Prime Minister’s House during a three-day state visit.
• President Muizzu stated the honour belongs to the people of the Maldives and reflects strong bilateral friendship.

Special Convocation at Prime Minister’s House

The honorary doctorate was conferred on the Maldivian president at the 13th Special Convocation held at the Prime Minister’s House, following delegation-level talks and the exchange of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between the two sides to deepen bilateral ties across multiple sectors. At the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Muizzu is undertaking a three-day state visit to Pakistan accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and a high-level delegation comprising cabinet ministers and senior officials.

This marks the first visit by a Maldivian President to Pakistan in eleven years, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1966. The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, members of the federal cabinet, delegation members of the Maldivian President, Rector of IIUI Professor Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, and senior government officials.

Recognition of Leadership and Public Service

The degree was awarded on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari, in his capacity as Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the IIUI. Prime Minister Shehbaz, accompanied by the IIU Rector, presented the honorary degree to President Muizzu. Reading the citation for the conferment, Vice President Academics Dr. Nadeem Ahmed Sheikh said that the degree was conferred in recognition of President Muizzu’s distinguished public service, leadership, governance reforms, institutional development, and dedication to upholding Islamic values, promoting justice and equality, and contributing to the Muslim Ummah.

In his remarks, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu recalled receiving his doctorate 17 years ago, stating that receiving this recognition from IIUI was beyond anything he could have envisioned at the time. He noted that the honour truly belongs to the people of the Maldives and the enduring friendship shared between the two nations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who received the honorary doctorate from IIUI?

President of Maldives Dr. Mohamed Muizzu received the honorary doctorate in Politics and International Relations from the International Islamic University Islamabad.

Where was the 13th Special Convocation held?

The 13th Special Convocation was held at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad during President Muizzu’s three-day state visit to Pakistan.