The South Sudanese government on Friday honoured the fifth batch of Chinese doctors for their contribution to the country’s health sector.
All the 15 members of the China medical team in Juba were presented with certificates honouring their service during an occasion officiated by senior South Sudanese government officials and Chinese embassy officials.
The South Sudanese acting Foreign Minister Martin Lumoro said the departing Chinese doctors had contributed greatly to his country’s health sector over the past one year, adding that their services would be missed by the people of South Sudan.
Lumoro also hailed Beijing’s continued political and humanitarian support for the world’s youngest nation.
“We benefit a lot from China in many fields, but in this particular field of health sector, China is the only country helping us. Others (countries) are running away from South Sudan, but China is coming to help. We cannot forget this kind of assistance to the people of South Sudan,” Lumoro said.
Health Minister Riek Gai Kok said the medical team improved delivery of medical services across South Sudan amid harsh working conditions such as lack of medical equipment, poor roads and insecurity.
He said the Chinese doctors performed several surgeries in at least five towns across South Sudan and that has rescued the people from seeking medical care in foreign countries.
“We are very happy for the excellent work that you have done across South Sudan. With this cooperation, we can consolidate the true friendship between the people and governments of South Sudan and China,” Kok said.
Liu Xiaodong, the Charge d’ Affaires at the Chinese Embassy, pledged his country’s continued support for South Sudan, saying that since 2013, China has been sending medical teams to the country, and they have defied the harsh working conditions to deliver health services even to remote parts.
