The Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua has described the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge as an engineering marvel which has transformed Maldivians' life and economy.
Responding to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s directive to declare 30 August of each year as National Engineers’ Day to mark the anniversary of the inauguration of the China–Maldives Friendship Bridge, Ambassador Xianhua in a post on his X account said this engineering marvel of Chinese and Maldivian engineers transformed Maldivians' life and economy dramatically.
“So, engineers build not just projects, but also people's lives and society's progress. They deserve our most heartfelt respect,” he said.
The construction of the Sinamel’ Bridge - partly funded under the grant assistance of the Chinese government began in 2024. The bridge was completed in just under four years, and remains the largest infrastructure project in Maldivian history.
The 1.39 km long over-water bridge, linking capital Male’ to the airport island Hulhule’ and the reclaimed suburb Hulhumale’, symbolises the long-standing friendship between Sri Lanka and China. The bridge is 20.3 meters wide and has two lanes for four-wheelers and two lanes for cyclists.