By Jiang Shan and Shi Kuiji
PORT of ST. JOHNS, Oct. 31 (ChinaMil) -- The Chinese naval hospital ship Peace Ark (Hull 866), currently on its "Harmonious Mission 2018", successfully completed its eight-day friendly visit and medical service task to Antigua and Barbuda, and left the Port of St. Johns, the capital of the country, at around 10 a.m. on October 29.
During the visit, the hospital ship Peace Ark has dispatched medical teams by ambulance helicopters for two consecutive days to provide urgent medical service to Barbuda. Local residents praised that the Chinese naval ambulance helicopters have set up an air medical passageway between the two islands of Antigua and Barbuda.
The Peace Ark has completed treatment of 3,924 people-times, as well as CT, DR and other auxiliary examinations of 2,410 people-times during this trip. The Chinese medical staff also carried out physical examinations for 53 people, admitted 16 people into hospital and performed 14 cases of surgery.
A farewell party for the Peace Ark was held by the Chinese Embassy in Antigua and Barbuda on the evening of October 28.
Governor-General Sir Rodney Williams and his wife, Prime Minister Gaston Browne and his wife, together with Foreign Minister Paul Greene, Health Minister Molwyn Joseph, Chief of Staff of the Defense Force Trevor Thomas and other military and government officials of Antigua and Barbuda attended the party and delivered speeches respectively.
Governor-General Williams said in his speech: "This mission has enhanced the traditional friendship between the two countries since 1983, and we hope to keep on the cooperation in the future and continue this profound friendship between the two countries."
"The kind medical assistance has provided a healthier and brighter future for the people of Antigua and Barbuda. We welcome the Chinese naval ship Peace Ark to visit us again in the future," he added.
Prime Minister Browne said the Peace Ark's medical service represents China's great help to the people of Antigua and Barbuda. "China has always been a good friend and partner of Antigua and Barbuda, and Antigua and Barbuda, in turn, is a trustworthy partner of China," added Browne.
He said that he sincerely hoped a brighter future for China and a long-lasting friendship between the two countries.
Wang Xianmin, ambassador of China to Antigua and Barbuda, said this year marked the 35th anniversary of China-Antigua and Barbuda diplomatic ties. "The Peace Ark has brought health, friendship and joy, and was greatly welcomed and praised by the government and the people of Antigua and Barbuda," he said.
"The visit of the ship has injected new vitality and added new colors to the friendship between the nations," added Wang.
It is reported that the Peace Ark is heading for its next stop, the Dominican Republic.