Chinese naval hospital ship Peace Ark on Friday launched a medical outreach mission in Mauritania as part of the Mission Harmony-2024, delivering medical services to local people.
The Chinese ship arrived in the country on Thursday for a seven-day goodwill visit. It is the hospital ship's first visit to Mauritania and also the first time a Chinese naval ship has paid a visit to the country since China and Mauritania established diplomatic relationship in 1965.
A team of Chinese medical officers departed from the ship on Friday morning to a medical center in Nouakchott. Upon their arrival, many women, children, and elderly residents came to the center to seek medical consultation.
The Chinese team focused on prevalent health issues, including hypertension, diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders, answering the patients' questions and addressing their concerns.
During the seven-day visit, the Peace Ark will use its main platform to provide medical services to local people, and dispatch medical teams to local hospitals and Mauritanian military installations. Members of the ship will also carry out cultural exchange activities in local schools.
"Our goal is to bring health and hope to them, ensuring they feel the warmth of our care. Every effort we make is worthwhile," said Dou Xiaorong, a Chinese medical officer.