China has provided USD 2.8 million in assistance to support the Maldives’ recovery after a major fire last December destroyed offices belonging to three key government ministries in Malé.

The 12 December 2024 blaze swept through the key buildings leaving the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure severely damaged.

The neighbouring Green Building formerly home to the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency was also rendered unusable. As a result, the affected institutions have temporarily relocated their operations to the Dharubaaruge convention centre.

During a handover ceremony held on Tuesday, Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua formally presented the financial aid to Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer.

The funds will be utilised to purchase office furniture and essential equipment needed to restore the ministries’ work capacity.

Speaking at the event, Minister Zameer said the contribution would play an important role in reinstating government services.

He added that the gesture reflects the strength of Maldives–China relations, noting that recent high-level engagements particularly President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s discussions with President Xi Jinping have reinforced trust and opened new areas of cooperation between the two countries.