by Liao Yifan

 

Beijing, May 18 (China Economic Net) - The year 2021 marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan. In March, China Economic Net (CEN) launched a large-scale all-media reporting activity named "70+70: 70-Year Stories of China and Pakistan", listening to the touching stories of over 140 people who have witnessed or have been dedicated to China-Pakistan friendship.

 

In March, the National Health Commission of China issued a notice praising the outstanding performance of foreign aid medical teams in 2020. The 4th batch of medical team sent by the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) to help Pakistan was on the list of commendations.

 

The medical team is composed of 5 volunteers from Huashan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, Beijing Red Cross 999 Emergency Center and Hubei Red Cross Society, including medical experts and nursing staff from clinical laboratory, internal medicine, and nursing department.

 

 

In February 2017, Chinese Red Cross Foundation established the "Silk Road Fraternity Fund" to unite caring enterprises to carry out humanitarian assistance. In May of the same year, the first unit of China-Pakistan Emergency Medical Corridor, the Fraternity Emergency Care Center, opened in Gwadar, Pakistan under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

 

In the past four years, the RCSC has sent four batches of medical teams to provide medical and first aid services to local residents and staff of Chinese-funded enterprises. Those medical teams have treated a total of 5,956 patients, of which 4,207 were Pakistanis, according to RCSC.

 

"In the first two months, we started from scratch, and each team member changed from a specialist doctor to an all-rounder. The hands used to holding scalpels began to do chores such as installing equipment, laying circuitry, sorting out medicines and cleaning up," said a medic of the first batch.

 

"Since vegetables were short of supply in Gwadar Port at that time, we planted seeds brought from China and opened up a vegetable plot in the dormitory area. Despite the tough condition, this small vegetable plot became our spiritual oasis," the medic told reporter.

 

 

The fourth squad of medical aid team completed its task, albeit six months later than planned because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and returned home safely. Despite the risks posed by the pandemic, the medics held fast to their posts and made outstanding contributions to medical care in Pakistan, according to the RCSC.

 

The medical teams organically integrate the operating model of Chinese hospitals with the local customs of Pakistan, and work closely with Pakistan Red Crescent Society to keep the center running well.

 

In addition to providing daily medical services, the medical teams also provide medical support for major events held in Gwadar Port. Their high-quality medical services and outstanding contributions have won acclaim from the local government and people.