Photo exhibition to mark the 40th anniversary of China-Benin medical relations

Updated: 2018-07-06

Organized by the Chinese Embassy in Benin and the Health and Family Planning Commission of the Ningxia Hui autonomous region, a photo exhibition, held from June 29 to July 5 in the China Culture Center in Benin, aimed to memorialize the 40th anniversary of Sino-Benin ties and the first of Ningxia's medical teams sent to Benin four decades ago.

The opening ceremony of the event attracted more than 100 participants including Peng Jingtao, the Chinese ambassador to Benin; Sun Jianjun, deputy director of the Health and Family Planning Commission of the Ningxia, and representatives of the Beninese Health Ministry and Defense Ministry.

Zhang Bohui, business counselor from the Chinese Embassy in Benin, reviewed the medical cooperation between China and Benin over the past four decades at the ceremony and fully affirmed the contributions and achievement of the Ningxia medical team to Benin. He praised their spirit in overcoming difficulties and sacrificing their lives for their patients.

A representative from the Beninese Health Ministry said that he is very thankful for the selfless dedication of China's medical aid team in Benin. He spoke highly of the cooperation in medical care between the two sides and proposed a minute of silent tribute to the three medical staff who sacrificed their lives in the past.

A representative from Benin's Ministry of Defense said that the military of Benin is now in charge of the Parakou Hospital built by the Chinese government and they appreciate China's efforts to offer advanced technologies and medical facilities to their country.

Sun Jianjun, deputy director of the Health and Family Planning Commission of Ningxia Hui autonomous region, said that the commission will continue to send excellent medical teams to Benin and to play a vital part in deepening the cooperation between China and Benin.

The president of Benin's university medical center, which received medical assistance from the Chinese team years ago, said that the medical staff have very exquisite medical skills and he hopes that the local doctors will have more opportunities for medical training in China.

Chen Jianghong, leader of the 22th medical team to Benin, said that she is eager to inherit the good tradition of sending Ningxia's medical teams to Benin over the past 40 years and will strive to reach her team’s goal of treating and curing patients.   

After the opening ceremony, Ambassador Peng and counselor Zhang guided visitors to a photo show and listened to the explanations provided. Later, participants left their comments and good wishes on the message board in praise of the friendship between the two sides and in gratitude for the great contributions made by the Chinese medical teams to Benin.