Upon invitation of the Vanuatu Government, China Navy Hospital Ship Ark Peace successfully visited Vanuatu from 8 to 15 August 2023. Vanuatu Prime Minister Alatoi Ishmael Kalsakau Maau’Koro led cabinet members to the wharf to attend the welcome and farewell ceremonies with Chinese Ambassador Li Minggang.

During its 7-day visit to Vanuatu, Ark Peace provided free medical service to 6,573 people, and successfully completed 27 operations, including Vanuatu’s first laparoscopic cholecystectomy. On 13 August alone, the main platform of Ark Peace received record-high 1,074 patients. Ark Peace also sent 8 mobile medical teams to villages, hospitals, schools, etc., to provide medical service and promote health education.

The visit marks Ark Peace’s third visit to Vanuatu and demonstrates the everlasting friendship between China and Vanuatu since 1982.