China-Maldives friendship bridge marks seven years of impact and progress

Today marks the seventh anniversary of the Sinamalé Bridge, widely recognized as the Maldives' most significant infrastructure project, and a symbol of the enduring friendship and trust between the Maldives and China. 

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, reflecting on the milestone, emphasized how the bridge has transformed daily life in the Malé region. Since its official opening on August 30, 2018, the 1.4-kilometer-long bridge has become a vital link, easing traffic congestion and enabling smoother travel between Malé, Hulhulé, and Hulhumalé including Phase 2. Every day, hundreds of people rely on it to get to work, school, and other destinations, a testament to its importance.

In a message shared to mark the occasion, President Muizzu described the bridge as a "gateway to new opportunities" and a lasting symbol of what can be achieved through mutual cooperation. He praised the partnership between China and the Maldives, noting it reflects not only shared trust and solidarity but also the potential for green development in the region.

President Muizzu is currently in China, visiting at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, a reflection of the ongoing diplomatic and development ties between the two nations.

The Sinamalé Bridge remains the largest project of its kind in the Maldives. Constructed with major support from the Chinese government, it cost approximately USD 200 million. Of that amount, USD 116 million was provided as free aid from China, with an additional USD 72 million in loans. The Maldives government contributed USD 12 million toward the project.

Since its inauguration, the bridge has been maintained free of charge by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), the same firm that built it. In May this year, Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, confirmed after an inspection that the bridge remains in excellent condition, thanks to ongoing maintenance by a professional team.

That team includes not only experienced Chinese engineers but also a number of young Maldivian professionals, highlighting a spirit of collaboration and knowledge exchange between the two countries.