The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering, stands as a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between China and the Maldives. Completed in 2018, this iconic structure has not only connected the islands of Malé, Hulhumalé, and the airport island, but has also significantly boosted the Maldivian economy and transformed daily life for its citizens.
For years, the Maldivian capital, Malé, relied on ferries for transportation to Hulhumalé and the airport island, a system severely hampered by inclement weather. The need for improved infrastructure and land expansion spurred the ambitious project of building a bridge across the Gaadhoo Koa channel, a challenging feat given the unpredictable three-meter waves, complex coral reef geology, intense solar radiation, high humidity, and extreme salinity. Despite these formidable obstacles, Chinese engineers, employing advanced technology and unwavering dedication, completed the bridge in a remarkably short 33 months.
The bridge’s construction presented unprecedented technical challenges, forcing many international competitors to withdraw. However, the Chinese engineers persevered, overcoming these difficulties with efficiency and innovative solutions. This remarkable achievement resulted in a modern and robust structure designed to withstand the test of time for a century.
The impact on Malé has been transformative. Once a city where cars were a rarity, Malé now experiences the challenges of modern urban life, including traffic congestion. The bridge has alleviated the strain on overcrowded living conditions and eased traffic jams, effectively opening a major transportation artery for Greater Malé and unlocking new opportunities for urban expansion and economic growth. As former Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and current President His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated, “The geography of the Maldives is unlike any other country in the world. The construction of this bridge will open the door to our development.”
The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it symbolizes the deep bond between the two nations. Announced during President Xi Jinping’s 2014 state visit, it represents a significant gift from the Chinese people to the Maldivians. The project’s financial structure reflects a commitment to sustainable development. The Chinese government provided $100 million in grant aid, with the Chinese contractor, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), contributing an additional $100 million to cover extra technical expenses. The Maldivian government’s total expenditure was approximately $74 million, with $63 million sourced as a low-interest loan (2%) from China. This financial arrangement, coupled with the Maldives’ healthy debt-to-GDP ratio of around 60% at the time, ensured the project’s economic viability.
The bridge’s success is a testament to efficient execution, substantial returns, low costs, and manageable debt. Its impact has resonated deeply within the Maldivian population, fostering appreciation for the principle of equality between nations, regardless of size, a value shared by both China and the Maldives. The project’s success underscores the commitment of the Chinese people to the well-being of the Maldivian people, reflecting a partnership that extends beyond infrastructure to encompass shared opportunities and futures.
The bridge’s construction aligns with China’s broader vision, encompassing the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the creation of a regional community with a shared future, and the pursuit of a community with a shared future for humanity. The Maldives, an early participant in the BRI, has benefited significantly from this initiative, experiencing transformative infrastructure development and strengthened economic ties with China. This collaboration exemplifies the BRI’s core principles of consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, delivering tangible results for the Maldivian people.
China’s commitment to fostering a community with a shared future extends beyond infrastructure projects. It involves collaborative efforts to build a peaceful, secure, prosperous, and harmonious environment for regional neighbors. This commitment reflects China’s long-standing dedication to global peace and development, a principle deeply rooted in its national identity and foreign policy.
The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge stands as a powerful symbol of enduring friendship between two nations. Its resilience mirrors the unwavering strength of the bilateral relationship, a bond that transcends geographical boundaries and stands firm against the tides of time. The bridge serves as a lasting testament to the collaborative spirit and shared vision for a brighter future.
(The author is H.E. Mr. KONG Xianhua, the Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives)
