Work on upgrading roads in Malé and Vilimalé and building the 100-bed China–Maldives Friendship Hospital in Vilimalé is expected to begin in late 2026 or early 2027, Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua has said.
In an exclusive interview with The Press, Kong said both projects would be fully funded through Chinese grants under the China Aid programme. Preparations were progressing according to schedule.
He also highlighted ongoing Chinese-supported work to maintain the Sinamalé Bridge and establish biological control facilities to combat coconut beetles. Facilities are being developed on three islands, alongside training for Maldivian technicians.
Kong said approvals for a project to build council offices on various islands were expected this year.
Major infrastructure projects require feasibility studies, detailed designs, budgets and government approvals before construction, he explained. These stages help ensure quality and smooth implementation.
He said China respected the Maldivian government’s views and priorities, with extensive consultations essential to completing projects successfully.
Success should be measured by improvements to people’s lives and lasting contributions to the economy and national development, rather than completion speed alone, the ambassador said.
