The initiative signified the 10th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between The Gambia Government and the People’s Republic of China.
Speaking at the occasion, Counselor Tong Zhan from the Chinese embassy described Bansang as the birthplace of China-Gambia medical cooperation.
Counselor Tong said that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the resumption of diplomatic relations between the two countries, noting that with this extraordinary historical moment, the return of the Chinese medical team to Bansang to carry out free medical services is not only a warm homecoming after years apart.
He said that it is also a sincere tribute to the cause of China-Gambia health cooperation, carrying special and far-reaching significance.
“Bansang is where China's medical assistance to The Gambia set sail. Back in the 1980s, the first batch of Chinese medical team members took root here, dedicating themselves to healing the sick and rescuing the dying,” he recalled.
With superb medical skills and sincere hearts, he said, they alleviated pain and brought health to local people, and planted the seed of China-Gambia friendship on this land.
“In this return visit to Bansang for the free clinic, we will not only provide diagnosis and treatment for common and chronic diseases, health education and free medicine distribution for local residents, but also donate urgently needed medical supplies to local medical institutions,” he said, adding that these practical actions aim to address people's concerns and warm their hearts.
He assured that this is not only a continuation of their historical friendship, but also a vision for a better future of their cooperation.
Dr. Lin Lin, who spoke on behalf of the medical team, recalled that Bansang Hospital is the earliest and most traditional station of Chinese medical teams in The Gambia.
He said that for many years, generations of Chinese medical workers have worked at the Bansang Hospital, served the local people and built a solid foundation with excellent reputation. This long-lasting cooperation, he said, has become a precious treasure of China-Gambia friendship.
“Today, we return to this meaningful place with full sincerity and a strong sense of responsibility. We will deliver quality medical services, share clinical experience and work hand in hand with all of you to improve local medical care and safeguard the health of local communities,” he assured.
Dr. Masirending Njie, Chief Executive Officer of the Bansang Hospital, applauded the move, noting that two years ago, the hospital received similar donations from the Chinese.
He added that the availability of those medical items will serve a long way in the efforts to attending patients at the hospital and thanked both the Chinese embassy and the medial team for what he described as a breakthrough in improving health service delivery in the country.
