China-Maldives Hospital Assistance & Cooperation Program

On February 11, 2023, the inauguration event for the China-Maldives Ophthalmology Center Assistance & Cooperation Program took place at Hulhumale Hospital. Key attendees included Chinese Ambassador Wang Lixin, Vice President Faisal Naseem, Minister of President's Office Mr. Shiyam, State Minister for Health Dr. Shah Mahir, Professor Chen Weirong from Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University, and HMH CEO Ms. Mariya Saeed.

During the ceremony, Professor Chen, the head of the Chinese medical team, introduced her team comprising seven doctors and nurses. She highlighted the team's accomplishments, which included equipment testing, preparation of operation theaters, patient diagnosis and treatment, surgeries, and training of local staff.

Three members of the team would remain in the Maldives for six months to provide continued diagnosis, treatment, and staff training. The next phase of the program would involve inviting the local medical team to China for training and exchange, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the skills and services of local ophthalmic doctors.

Ambassador Wang Lixin emphasized that the Chinese government's medical assistance and cooperation with the Maldives had reached a new level. It had transitioned from providing "Bright Journey" medical services initially to assisting in the establishment of the ophthalmology center, and now focusing on capacity building.

The aim was to enhance the independent development capabilities of the Maldives and enable its medical staff to serve the local population effectively. This shift in China's medical aid model from "offering fish to people" to "teaching people how to fish" would not only establish a sustainable cooperation model between the two countries but also bring tangible benefits to the Maldivian people.

Vice President Faisal Naseem expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping and the Chinese Government for their assistance in capacity building and providing quality medical care at the Ophthalmic Center. He highlighted the significant impact of the Chinese medical team's assistance, citing successful eye camps where over 500 patients were treated in January 2020 and over 1,000 patients were screened previously with Chinese government support. The Vice President expressed confidence in further strengthening China-Maldives relations in the future.

Dr. Shah emphasized the importance of the donated medical equipment and ongoing technical expertise provided by the Chinese medical team. He stated that these contributions would enhance the accessibility and availability of services at the China-Maldives Ophthalmology Center. The resumption of aid after the COVID-19 pandemic showcased the strong strategic bond between China and the Maldives.

Ms. Mariya extended a warm welcome and sincere appreciation to the Chinese medical team for their return to HMH, along with their material support and technical expertise, which contributed to upgrading the HMH ophthalmic center.

As a gesture of goodwill, the Chinese medical team, on behalf of the Chinese government, donated medical equipment and medicines worth approximately USD 1 million to Hulhumale' Hospital (HMH) during the ceremony.

Following the ceremony, Ambassador Wang Lixin, Vice President Faisal Naseem, and other dignitaries were given a tour of the Ophthalmic Center at Hulhumale' Hospital by Professor Chen and Ms. Mariya.