Sinamale' Bridge in ‘terrific’ condition after 7 years, says Chinese ambassador

China’s new ambassador to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, has praised the structural condition of the Sinamalé Bridge following a recent inspection, calling it “terrific” after seven years in use.

In a post on X, the ambassador said he met with the young team conducting the inspection of the bridge, which is a symbol of China-Maldives friendship.

“GOOD NEWS: according to their thorough inspection, the condition of this beautiful bridge, after 7 years in use, is terrifically good!” he wrote.

Ambassador Kong said that the bridge’s condition was due to the efforts of a professional Chinese team assigned to inspect and maintain the structure. The team, he said, includes young Chinese engineers working alongside some Maldivian youth.

“I am looking forward to more young Maldivians to grow into qualified engineers and take over the mission of bridge maintenance,” he added.

Ambassador Kong Xianhua presented his credentials to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Monday.

Opened on 30 August 2018, the 1.4-kilometre Sinamale' Bridge has significantly transformed daily life in the capital region, enabling seamless travel between Male', Hulhule' and Hulhumale' for hundreds of commuters.

Constructed with Chinese assistance, the Sinamale' Bridge remains the Maldives’ largest infrastructure project of its kind. The USD 200 million project was funded through a combination of a USD 116 million Chinese grant, a USD 72 million loan, and a USD 12 million contribution from the Maldivian government.

The bridge has been maintained since completion by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), which built the bridge and continues its upkeep at no additional cost.