South Sudan honors outgoing Chinese medical team, welcomes new batch

The South Sudanese government and the Chinese embassy in the country on Tuesday honored the outgoing 12th batch of the Chinese medical team with certificates of recognition for their service to local communities, while welcoming the newly arrived 13th batch at a ceremony in Juba, the capital.

JUBA, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- The South Sudanese government and the Chinese embassy in the country on Tuesday honored the outgoing 12th batch of the Chinese medical team with certificates of recognition for their service to local communities, while welcoming the newly arrived 13th batch at a ceremony in Juba, the capital.

Health Minister Sarah Cleto Rial commended the departing team for their professionalism and compassion. "Your dedication, professionalism, and compassion have left a lasting impact on our people," Cleto said. "You have treated countless patients, performed complex surgeries, and provided high-quality care to those in need."

Noting that the outgoing team had also trained local staff, introduced new medical technologies and protocols, and strengthened South Sudan's health capacity, the minister expressed hope that the incoming team would build on that legacy.

"To the members of the 13th batch of the Chinese medical team, we warmly welcome you to South Sudan. We trust that you will build on the legacy of your predecessors," Cleto said. "As you begin your mission, I encourage you to remain true to your noble calling, and to serve with compassion, unity, professionalism, and respect."

Anthony Lupai Simon, director-general of Juba Teaching Hospital, said the 12th batch donated supplies, trained medical staff, and organized outreach camps in Juba and other regions.

"The people of South Sudan have benefited from this group in many aspects. This includes the medical camps they conducted in places like the University of Juba, Mangala, and other parts of the country," Simon said, adding that the team also promoted cultural exchange by teaching the Chinese language to local colleagues.

Huo Ying, charge d'affaires at the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan, said the medical teams reflect China's humanitarian spirit and its commitment to global health.

"Currently, the world is still facing various challenges in public health. Strengthening international cooperation, especially health cooperation with African countries, is not only a manifestation of China's role as a responsible major country, but also a common need for promoting the well-being of people in all countries," Huo said.

Du Changyong, leader of the 12th batch of the Chinese medical team, said the team has treated more than 15,000 outpatients and 2,300 inpatients, performed 192 surgeries, and saved 170 critically ill patients. They also conducted 268 academic lectures and contributed to medical education at Juba College of Health Sciences and other institutions.

"Over the past year, we have worked with a shared purpose. Together with our colleagues at Juba Teaching Hospital, we established a modern laboratory, the only one in South Sudan that has passed the national public health laboratory inspection and possesses legal qualifications," Du said.

Zhang Erqing, team leader of the 13th batch, said his 16-member team aims to carry forward the work of their predecessors.

"From the moment we take over the team flag, our identities are not only doctors and nurses, but also envoys of China-South Sudan friendship," Zhang said.■