Chinese Navy hospital ship "Peace Ark" arrives in Côte d'Ivoire

Xinhua News Agency, Abuja, October 15 (Reporter Hong Zehua) Abidjan news: On the local time of the 14th, the Chinese Navy hospital ship "Peace Ark," executing the "Harmonious Mission-2026," arrived in Abidjan, the economic capital of Côte d'Ivoire, to begin a friendly visit and provide medical services. This is the first visit of a Chinese Navy hospital ship to Côte d'Ivoire.

At around 10 a.m., the "Peace Ark," flying the flags of both China and Côte d'Ivoire, slowly docked at the port of Abidjan. Military and political officials from Côte d'Ivoire, the Chinese ambassador to Côte d'Ivoire, the defense attaché, embassy staff, as well as local Chinese expatriates and representatives of Chinese-funded institutions welcomed the ship at the dock. Onboard, officers and civilian personnel lined up in sections, waving to the welcoming crowd on the dock.

At the welcome ceremony, local residents raised banners and waved the flags of both China and Côte d'Ivoire to welcome the Chinese Navy hospital ship. After the ceremony, the Chief of Staff of the Ivorian Navy boarded the "Peace Ark" for a visit.

During the 7-day friendly visit, the commander of the task force will hold discussions with military and political officials from Côte d'Ivoire. The "Peace Ark" will utilize its main platform to provide diagnosis and treatment for local patients, while medical exchange teams and medical patrol teams will visit places such as the Abidjan military hospital and Félix Houphouët-Boigny University for medical exchanges and patrols. The task force will also organize a deck reception to enhance communication and friendship with Côte d'Ivoire.

China and Côte d'Ivoire officially established diplomatic relations in March 1983, and in September 2024, the two sides will formally establish a strategic partnership.