The Commander of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Naval Hospital Ship Ark Silk Road, Senior Captain Peng Guliang, recently met with Commodore Humphrey Tawake, Deputy Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), at the RFMF Strategic Headquarters in Suva. The visit symbolizes the ongoing friendship and cooperation between Fiji and China, particularly in the realm of health services.
During his visit, Senior Captain Peng was greeted with a ceremonial Quarter Guard from the RFMF Naval Division before engaging in discussions with Commodore Tawake. The Deputy Commander took the opportunity to acknowledge the profound 50-year relationship between Fiji and China, emphasizing how this partnership has fortified ties between the RFMF and the PLA. He expressed gratitude for the mission of the PLA Naval Hospital Ship, which has been providing a range of free medical consultations and public health services to RFMF personnel and the wider community during its stay in Fiji.
This humanitarian initiative aligns with previous medical missions undertaken by Chinese naval hospital ships, including notable visits in 2014 and 2018, which benefited thousands of Fijians through free medical care and education. Such efforts underscore a commitment to enhance healthcare cooperation and emergency support between the two nations.
The ongoing cooperation not only provides essential health services but also deepens diplomatic connections, reinforcing the message of solidarity in regional healthcare initiatives. The PLA’s visit reflects a broader trend of increasing collaboration between Fiji and China, paving the way for future partnerships in various sectors, including public health, infrastructure, and mutual development goals.