Sino-Guinea-Bissau Friendship Hospital: A beacon of cooperation and friendship

BISSAU -- Bissau's Main Military Hospital, one of the capital city's most important healthcare facilities, is known as the Sino-Guinea-Bissau Friendship Hospital. The emblem of the hospital proudly displays the word "Friendship."

In May 2023, Guinea-Bissau awarded the "National Medal of Honor for Cooperation and Development" to China's 19th medical team in the country, recognizing their impactful service. At the Friendship Hospital where they worked, the Chinese doctors often hear words expressing gratitude to them.

"The trust and admiration for Chinese doctors are palpable here, and we've learned greatly from them," said Bioussum, a doctor at the hospital.

Silva, a 29-year-old farmer whose chronic back pain has been relieved by acupuncture treatments he received at the Friendship Hospital, emotionally thanked his Chinese doctors.

Director of the hospital Ramalho Cunda said he was impressed by the dedication and professionalism of the Chinese doctors, whose efforts have brought blessings to the hospital and its patients.

The Chinese medical team has introduced advanced medical technologies, shared practical experiences and actively assisted local healthcare professionals in improving their skills, he said. "We thank China, we thank the friendship between the two countries."

In May, Guinea-Bissau welcomed its 20th Chinese medical team, comprised of 16 members. Team leader Pang Yong told Xinhua that their mission is to improve local medical conditions, care for patients and safeguard the health of the people of Guinea-Bissau.

In Guinea-Bissau, there is also a school known as the China-Guinea-Bissau Friendship School. According to Bubacar Dabo, the school's director, it is rare to find a school like this in the country. Since its establishment over a decade ago, the school has consistently received donations of backpacks, school supplies, desks and chairs from the Chinese embassy and Chinese companies.

"The school is not just a platform for educational cooperation between the two countries, but also a link that perpetuates and strengthens the friendship between the people of both countries," said Dabo.

"In Guinea-Bissau, cooperation with China is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people. China is our good brother and partner," said Tete Sambu, an agricultural policy expert.

He said his father's generation experienced the historic friendship during the independence war, and he himself has participated in multiple agricultural training sessions in China.

The special bonds have fostered cooperation projects and strengthened the enduring friendship and collaboration between China and Guinea-Bissau, he said.