Chongqing – A park honoring the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the Maldives’ first cross-sea bridge, was recently inaugurated in the capital city of Male. The bridge was built by China Communications Second Navigational Bureau Second Engineering Co., Ltd., based in Chongqing, Southwest China.

The park includes a display wall detailing the construction process, located near the archway at the bridge's entrance. A monument commemorating the bridge’s construction, which has been preserved and restored, stands prominently within the park.

A park commemorating the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge was recently inaugurated. (Photo/China Communications Second Navigational Bureau Second Engineering Co., Ltd.)

The display showcases the advanced technology and workers' dedication behind the bridge's construction, while the monument details the China-Maldives collaboration on this iconic project.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Maldives Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Abdulla Muththalib and Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin.

Minister Muththalib remarked that the park serves as a reminder of the Chinese government's support in building the bridge and strengthens the bond between the two nations.

Ambassador Wang emphasized the transformative impact of the bridge on the Maldives, noting that it has greatly improved local transportation and spurred economic growth.

At the event, staff from China Communications Second Navigational Bureau Second Engineering Co., Ltd. handed out school supplies to local children. The event introduced them to bridge construction and encouraged them to pursue their studies and continue fostering the China-Maldives friendship.

China-Maldives Friendship Bridge. (Photo/China Communications Second Navigational Bureau Second Engineering Co., Ltd.)

The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, which opened on August 30, 2018, spans 2,000 meters, linking the capital, Male, with the airport island and Hulhumale Island. Since its completion, it has significantly enhanced transportation and contributed to the economic development of the Maldives.

A company representative said the establishment of this commemorative park adds cultural significance to the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge and showcases the successful collaboration between the two countries in infrastructure development.

The representative also mentioned that the company is engaged in the Velana International Airport expansion and reconstruction project in the Maldives, another key Belt and Road Initiative component. 

The project includes the construction of a new international terminal and an energy center, covering a total area of 78,000 square meters. Once completed, this development will support the rapid growth of the Maldives' tourism industry, marking another milestone in China-Maldives cooperation.