Pakistan university confers honorary doctorate to Pres. Muizzu for distinguished public service

The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) on Wednesday conferred an honorary doctorate in Politics and International Relations on Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in recognition of his distinguished public service, leadership, contributions to the socio-economic development of the Maldives, and service to the Muslim Ummah.

The honorary doctorate was conferred on the Maldivian president during the 13th Special Convocation held at the Prime Minister’s House, following delegation-level talks and the exchange of memorandums of understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors. 

The ceremony was attended by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, members of the federal cabinet, members of the Maldivian president’s delegation, IIUI Rector Professor Dr. Ahmed Saad Alahmed, and senior government officials.

The doctorate was conferred on behalf of President Asif Ali Zardari, in his capacity as Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of IIUI.

Prime Minister Shehbaz, accompanied by the IIUI rector, presented the honorary degree to President Muizzu.

Reading the citation for the award, Vice President for Academics Dr. Nadeem Ahmed Sheikh said the degree recognised President Muizzu’s distinguished public service, leadership, governance reforms, and efforts to strengthen his country’s institutions. He also highlighted the president’s commitment 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, saying that being recognised by IIUI was beyond anything he could have imagined at the time.

“This honorary doctorate in Politics and International Relations is meaningful for something else entirely… It matters because, although it has been given to me, it is the people of the Maldives who have earned it. And it is the friendship of your great nation that has conferred it. I receive this honour, and through it, you honour my people, my country, and the friendship we share,” he remarked.

He noted that despite extraordinary technological advancements, the world continued to grapple with conflict, injustice, and human suffering, underscoring the importance of moral responsibility.

He commended IIUI for upholding the principle that faith and knowledge should progress together in the service of humanity.

President Muizzu said the Maldives also remained committed to several important principles.

“Although we may be a small island nation, we believe firmly that dignity is not measured by landmass, nor is integrity determined by economic or military strength… We believe that every nation deserves respect. We believe that every people deserves dignity. And we believe every generation deserves the opportunity to inherit a more peaceful and just world,” he said, expressing hope that the longstanding ties between Pakistan and the Maldives would continue to strengthen and prosper.

President Muizzu's ongoing state visit to Pakistan coincides with the 60th anniverary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two neighbouring nations.