China has pledged USD 130 million in free aid to the Maldives, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has revealed.

Speaking to the press at the Vellana International Airport today after concluding his first official visit to China since taking office, the President said the USD 130 million grant was allocated for development projects in the Maldives.

The President said the largest amount of the aid will be spent on the road construction project in the city.

"The free aid of 920 million Chinese yuan, which is about USD 130 million, has been allocated to be spent on various development projects in Maldives, the largest of which will be spent on roads in the city," he said.

The President said it covers many other issues, including the agreement to set up 30,000 social housing units in the newly created city of Rasmale and the development of Velana International Airport.

The President said that during his visit, agreements were signed with China in various areas including tourism, fisheries, food security and renewable energy.