The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, a hallmark of the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road initiative, has entered a new phase with the launch of its follow-up maintenance and technical assistance project. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com]

On March 20, representatives from China and the Maldives signed the implementation agreement for this project. As the executing agency, CCCC Second Harbor Engineering will establish a bridge management system, train bridge maintenance technicians, and complete various inspections and reports within the three-year assistance period.

China and the Maldives jointly built the bridge. It stretches two kilometers and connects the Maldivian capital of Male, which has an airport, and Hulhule Island. Launched in 2016 and opening its lanes in 2018, the project overcame formidable challenges, including adverse geological conditions, environmental constraints, and logistical hurdles.