says the presence of a Chinese hospital ship, the Peace Ark, on local shores will help to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries.
The vessel has docked in Cape Town to offer comprehensive medical services. The outreach programme by the Chinese army is in partnership with the South African Military Health Services, Navy and the Western Cape Department of Health. The aim is to assist people who might not readily have access to medical care, including people living on the streets and in shelters.
Motshekga says Chinese and South African doctors from the army’s Military Health Services are participating in the programme. “The mission was two-pronged – firstly it’s the Chinese mission to provide health services … it would have come very handy as you can see flocks of our people have come and many have already had surgeries which is a good service. But it’s also about our friendship with China – it’s about strengthening our friendship, party relations and solidarity as well as strengthening our relations as the Defence force.