The Governments of the Republic of Maldives and the People’s Republic of China have signed a major Agreement on Development Cooperation, securing an assistance package of RMB 600 million, equivalent to approximately USD 84 million, to support the Maldives’ key development priorities in the coming years.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony held this morning by Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Maldivian government, and Kong Xianhua, Ambassador of China to the Maldives, representing the Chinese government.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Khaleel said the agreement reflects the close friendship and strong cooperation between the Maldives and China. He highlighted China’s long standing and transformative role in the country’s development over recent decades, citing major contributions including large scale housing developments in Hulhumalé, sustained support to the health sector, growing tourism arrivals, and the iconic China Maldives Friendship Bridge.
The Minister noted that the assistance under the agreement will focus on several priority projects, including the development of the China Maldives Friendship Hospital in Villimalé, road development works in Malé and Villimalé, and the construction of 50 council buildings across the Maldives, alongside other initiatives aimed at strengthening infrastructure and local governance.
Minister Khaleel conveyed sincere appreciation to Xi Jinping, as well as the government and people of China, for their continued assistance and cooperation towards the Maldives’ development and prosperity. He reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to working closely with China to build a joint community with a shared future based on mutual respect and shared growth.
In his remarks, Ambassador Kong reiterated China’s continued support for the Maldives’ development efforts and reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation through the effective implementation of mutually agreed projects, underscoring China’s focus on delivering tangible benefits for both nations.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Finance and Planning, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other distinguished guests.
The agreement also underscores the strong political alignment between Malé and Beijing under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration. President Muizzu has maintained a close and constructive relationship with China through consistent high level engagement, positioning Beijing as a key development partner as the Maldives advances infrastructure driven growth, improved public services, and strengthened local governance across the country.
