Peace Ark: From China with love and care (3)

"You have to know what people need in order to help them," he said. "We were warmly welcomed on the first two missions. The lines of people stretched longer than a kilometer and some even waited the entire night to see our doctor."

As the hospital ship only anchors at each stop for several days, the medical team targets common diseases and operations that can be completed quickly.

The services, including surgery and medication, are free of charge and in line with international standards, said Wang. "We have the most experienced doctors and the best medicines," he said.

Zhang Lanmei, a 50-year-old gynecologist, said this is her first Peace Ark mission.

"I have been working for more than 30 years and I am happy that my experience will help people overseas," she said.

Purpose-built vessel

Designed and constructed in China, the Peace Ark is a purpose-built hospital vessel and much of its equipment is of the same standard as that found in some of China's top hospitals. The vessel has 300 sickbeds, eight operating rooms and a rescue helicopter.

Wang said the crew includes three experts in traditional Chinese medicine, who provide treatments such as acupuncture and massage.

"Chinese medicine is widely accepted in Southern Asian countries. Our trip is also a great opportunity for people to learn more about our culture and history," said Wang. "During the visit, the ship will be totally open to local medical professionals. We are looking forward to learning from them as well."

On the walls of one sickroom, posters explain Chinese medicine and treatment. A doctor stabbed a thin needle into an officer's back to ease his backache. Through the porthole behind the doctor, seagulls could be glimpsed as they glided by. Even during heavy gales and swells, the sickrooms are quiet and dry.

"Showing goodwill to neighboring countries is a responsibility and also a sign of a confident country," said Guo from the PLA National Defense University.

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