Chinese Hospital Ship Provides Medical Aid in Mauritania

The People's Liberation Army Navy deployed the hospital ship Auspicious Ark to Nouakchott, Mauritania, on September 15, 2026, as the first stop of Mission Harmony-2026. The seven-day friendly visit involves over 100 medical personnel from more than 20 institutions providing care both aboard the vessel and at local facilities.

During the mission, Chinese medical staff operated a free clinic in the Arafat District, where they examined more than 200 residents and referred over 40 patients to the ship for surgery and advanced care. The crew also assisted a pregnant Mauritanian woman in giving birth to a healthy baby boy on Wednesday. Beyond civilian care, the mission includes professional exchanges, consultations, and training for Mauritanian military units.

This deployment marks the second time a Chinese naval hospital ship has visited Mauritania, following a previous visit by the Peace Ark. Fatimatou Abdel Malick, President of the Nouakchott Regional Council, expressed gratitude for the assistance, stating that the mission is important for the local people.