COLOMBO, Dec. 20 -- Top European and Chinese companies are interested in constructing a bridge between Maldives capital Male and the island of Hulhule, local media reported here on Friday.

Maldives Tourism Minister and Co-chair of the Economic Committee Ahmed Adeeb told local media that the companies have expressed interest in constructing the bridge with their own funds and maintaining it for a prolonged period.

There are many proposals which fit that model, he added.

However, the minister did not specify the number or names of companies that have expressed interest.

"This project has grabbed the attention of many companies throughout the world. We are getting proposals from China and other top engineering companies. We will assess the proposals and give them the chance to bid for the project," Adeeb as quoted as saying by local media outlet Haveeru.

Interested parties will have the chance to submit proposals for the first project announced by the new government for foreign investors until December 29.

"We are hoping that this project will be highly successful. We are seeing the interest of investors in the Maldives. This also shows the investment potential of the Maldives," the minister added.

The government had said that priority will be given for companies with 10 years' experience in mega infrastructure projects.

According to Adeeb, the government will not delay the selection of a suitable company for the project.

The government will also propose amendments to the existing laws in a bid to boost investor confidence in the Maldives, he added.