China has pledged broad financial and developmental assistance to the Maldives to help the country confront its economic challenges, according to Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua. The commitment was outlined during a press conference focused on bilateral relations and ongoing Chinese-funded projects.
According to Ambassador Kong, China is working closely with the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to formulate specific plans for financial support. The necessary documentation is expected to be completed by the end of September, he elaborated. A central feature of the proposed aid, he said, is its structure: designed to avoid placing any additional financial burden on the Maldivian government.
He described efforts to arrange “a flexible arrangement that would allow loans to be repaid over the long term.” The ambassador also expressed confidence in the government’s ability to manage the country’s financial situation and urged the public to maintain trust in its leadership.
In addition to financial assistance, Ambassador Kong detailed several development projects in the Maldives funded through Chinese grant aid. Among them is a hospital project in Villimalé, which has now entered the design bidding phase.
Ambassador Kong also explained that preparations are also underway for a road modernisation initiative in Villimalé and Malé. Another project, the construction of 50 council offices, has advanced following the completion of on-site feasibility studies, the ambassador added.
Ambassador Kong pointed to President Muizzu’s recent state visit to China as a pivotal moment in bilateral relations. He said the visit had strengthened ties between the two nations and was expected to yield substantial benefits for the Maldives.
He noted that during the visit, 11 Memoranda of Understanding were signed across key sectors, including agriculture, construction, fisheries, renewable energy, and education. The ambassador assured that China is positioned to play a central role in advancing development across these critical sectors.