President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the Thilamalé Bridge is a landmark infrastructure project symbolising the close, enduring relationship between the Maldives and India.
He made the remarks during a special media briefing on National Engineers' Day, following an afternoon walk across the newly connected bridge segment from Malé to Vilimalé.
Speaking to the press, the President underscored the special priority accorded by the government of India, particularly Prime Minister His Excellency Narendra Modi, to the Greater Malé Connectivity Project (GMCP), which connects Malé, Vilimalé, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi. He expressed sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Modi, the Indian government, and High Commissioner His Excellency G. Balasubramanian. With the two islands now fully connected, President Dr Muizzu noted that this milestone was made possible through the dedicated efforts of technical teams from both countries, and thanked all those involved.
The President expressed optimism that, maintaining the current momentum, the entire project would be completed within a year, serving as a major catalyst for development across the Greater Malé Area.
Highlighting his Administration's focus on accelerating crucial nationwide initiatives, President Dr Muizzu remarked that the progress on the bridge reflects this commitment. He observed that several major ventures had stalled or faced significant bottlenecks prior to his term, but have since gained renewed momentum. In this regard, he noted that within a short period since assuming office, his Administration expedited and completed key pending projects, including the Velana International Airport terminal and Hanimaadhoo Airport.
President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed the Government's resolve to prioritise vital infrastructure, emphasising that projects reflecting the close partnership between India and the Maldives will continue to receive dedicated backing to further strengthen bilateral ties.
High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian, who participated in the walk, also spoke to the media, stating that the GMCP is one of India's largest-scale and most comprehensive infrastructure development projects abroad. He expressed pride in seeing it take shape in the Maldives, adding that its eventual completion will serve as a transformative asset for the Maldivian people.
Upon concluding the walk in Vilimalé, President Dr Muizzu was welcomed by a large gathering of local residents. Cabinet Ministers, senior Government officials, and heads of State-Owned Enterprises also joined the Engineers' Day commemorative walk.
