Ambassador of China to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, has announced that three major infrastructure projects funded through Chinese grant aid are set to begin practical implementation very soon.
The Ambassador shared the progress updates during a ceremony marking China's 76th National Day, emphasising the swift development of the partnership initiated earlier this year.
Ambassador Kong confirmed that the preparatory work for the projects has advanced significantly since agreements were solidified during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to China in January 2024. These initiatives leverage grant assistance from the Chinese government and are intended to bolster health services and local governance across the archipelago.
The three primary projects highlighted by the Ambassador include the establishment of the China-Maldives Friendship Hospital in Villimale’, a comprehensive road development project covering key urban areas, and the construction of new council offices in 50 islands.
“There are three major projects underway with full Chinese assistance... These three projects are very much in progress, and the practical work will start very soon,” Ambassador Kong said at the ceremony.
The most substantial initiative is the new 112-bed hospital in Villimale’. The government expects the facility to significantly expand health services within the Greater Male' area, providing enhanced convenience for residents.
Additionally, the council building project, aimed at improving administrative infrastructure, is moving forward, with official survey teams from China anticipated to conduct necessary feasibility studies ahead of construction.
The Ambassador noted that while the projects are progressing steadily, their implementation will start separately according to their respective scopes and preparations.