China Provides USD 2.8 Million to Support Maldives Fire Recovery Efforts

China has extended USD 2.8 million in financial assistance to the Maldives to support recovery efforts following a fire on 12 December 2024 that destroyed the offices of three government ministries in the capital.

The blaze engulfed the building opposite Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu in Malé, leaving the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure in ruins. The neighbouring Green Building, which housed the former Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the former Environmental Protection Agency, was also rendered unusable. Displaced agencies have temporarily relocated their operations to the Dharubaaruge convention centre.

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At a formal handover ceremony, Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua presented the funds to Moosa Zameer, the Minister of Finance and Planning. The assistance is intended for the procurement of office furniture and essential equipment, enabling the ministries to resume critical functions.

Minister Zameer stated that the support would play a vital role in restoring government operations and underscored its significance as a symbol of the enduring strength of bilateral relations. He added that recent diplomatic engagements, including President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s meetings with President Xi Jinping, have strengthened trust between Beijing and Malé and opened new avenues for cooperation.