China-Maldives Friendship Bridge deepens mutual ties

The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, constructed by the CCCC Second Harbor Engineering Co, was completed and opened to traffic on Aug 30, 2018. 

It stands as a landmark of high-quality cooperation between China and the Maldives under the Belt and Road Initiative, symbolizing the friendship between the two nations. Supported by the Chinese government, the project ended the Maldives' history of having no cross-sea bridges and has promoted local economic development over the past seven years since its opening.

The Maldivian government built a public viewing platform. While tourists visit the Maldives for the natural scenery, locals head to the seaside to admire the bridge, making "Bridge-watching" an indispensable part of local life.

During the construction period, the bridge was the hottest topic on Maldivian social media, and being invited to the "Open Day" events became something Maldivians could boast about to their friends. Visitors would take photos and selfies with the bridge, as well as with Chinese engineers.

Project team members conducted various activities to deepen cultural exchanges with the local community. Activities such as learning to use chopsticks, writing Chinese characters, and speaking Chinese attracted thousands of locals to participate in the "International Friendship Day" events organized by the project team. The locals highly praised the Chinese cuisine prepared by Chinese chefs.

The bridge allows people from different nations and cultural backgrounds to break boundaries and form deep friendships.