The Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure of the Maldives has entered into a significant agreement with China Communication Construction Company (CCCC) Second Harbour Engineering Company, aimed at enhancing bridge maintenance capabilities within the country. The agreement, signed by Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib and Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin, underscores the commitment of both nations to fostering cooperation and capacity-building initiatives.
Since 2020, bridge maintenance work in the Maldives has been undertaken by CCCC, and under the new agreement, the company will not only continue technical repair works but also assume responsibility for training Maldivian personnel in bridge maintenance tasks. This includes maintaining records on bridge standards and conducting maintenance on a monthly, biannual, and annual basis. The USD 3.6 million project, fully funded by the Chinese government, aims to empower Maldivians to independently manage bridge maintenance operations.
Minister Dr. Muththalib emphasised the importance of training Maldivians to assume maintenance responsibilities following CCCC's tenure, particularly with ongoing bridge development projects in the pipeline. He highlighted plans to establish a skilled team capable of maintaining large infrastructures, ensuring the sustainability of critical facilities.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Wang Lixin reaffirmed China's commitment to supporting the Maldives' developmental endeavors. He recalled the fruitful discussions between President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Chinese officials during the president's visit to China, which resulted in numerous agreements aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. Ambassador Lixin assured the Maldivian government of China's unwavering support, pledging technical assistance and resources to facilitate the country's development projects.
The Sinamale' Bridge, inaugurated in August 2018, stands as a testament to the successful collaboration between the Maldives and China. With a length of 1.39 km, the USD 300 million project, partially funded by the Maldivian government and China, symbolizes the importance of international partnerships in advancing infrastructure development in the Maldives.