China's Healing Touch in Algeria: 60 Years of Medical Aid and Inspiring Stories

Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister, Hua Chunying, recently highlighted an incredible milestone in Sino-Algerian relations. In a tweet, she acknowledged Algeria as the recipient of China's first-ever overseas medical team in 1963.

For over six decades, Chinese medical experts have dedicated themselves to treating patients, saving lives, and fostering deep-rooted connections with the Algerian people. This enduring partnership has resulted in countless heartwarming stories of compassion and collaboration.

Let us delve into the history and impact of China's medical assistance in Algeria, showcasing the significance of this friendship.Historical Significance: 

Historical Significance:

China's medical aid to Algeria traces back to the 1960s, a time when the newly independent nation faced a dire shortage of doctors and medicine. 

After gaining independence in 1962, Algeria reached out to various countries for assistance, and it was the Chinese government that responded swiftly, dispatching a medical team in early 1963. 

This marked China's first-ever medical aid team and Algeria's first foreign medical team following independence. The journey to reach Saïda known as the "gate of the desert," in Algeria proved challenging for the 24-member Chinese medical team. It took them over two months to arrive at their destination. 

The local population, living in impoverished conditions with limited medical facilities, eagerly anticipated the arrival of the Chinese doctors. The team wasted no time and started working on the day they reached Saïda. 

Their dedication, willingness to work long hours despite poor conditions, and their integration into the local community quickly earned them the trust and respect of the Algerian people. Some patients even traveled great distances from other provinces to seek treatment from these Chinese doctors.

Touching Stories:

Over the past six decades, Chinese medical professionals have left an indelible mark on Algeria through their selfless dedication and healing touch. Countless touching stories abound, illustrating their unwavering commitment to saving lives and providing critical medical assistance. 

The Chinese medical teams have been involved in various areas, ranging from general medical care to specialized treatments and surgeries. Chinese doctors have often displayed exceptional skill and compassion while treating patients in Algeria. Their expertise has contributed significantly to improving healthcare access, particularly in remote and underserved regions. 

Xu was born into a family of doctors, all of whom graduated from Norman Bethune University of Medical Science one of the very first to arrive in Algeria. Inspired by her relatives, she aspired to become a doctor like Norman Bethune, who had provided medical care to wounded soldiers and villagers in China during the war. In 1993, Xu eagerly volunteered to join a medical team from Huanggang City People's Hospital when they were tasked with assisting in Algeria. Fluent in French, she saw this as an opportunity to contribute.

The memory of Xu's initial day in Algeria remains vivid. Upon arrival, late at night, she was about to join the Chinese doctors at the station when an urgent case arrived. A pregnant woman, suffering from severe bleeding and complications, was in dire need of immediate attention due to acute oxygen shortage. Prioritizing the emergency, Xu set her luggage aside and swiftly entered the operating room.

The patient's complexion was pale, and her lips trembled. Xu promptly began operating to deliver the baby and stop the bleeding. Exhausted and drenched in sweat, she persisted until the procedure concluded. However, the challenge was far from over.

The newborn, not breathing and with a weakening heartbeat, required further intervention. The inadequately equipped operating room lacked essential items, such as suction catheters to clear the baby's airways. Undeterred, Xu commenced mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, disregarding the amniotic fluid covering the infant's body.

The local doctors observed Xu's remarkable actions in awe, expressing gratitude and admiration. Gradually, the baby's complexion turned rosy, it started to breathe, and finally let out a hearty cry. The doctors present applauded, and on that very first day in Algeria, Xu acquired a new title – Mama Xu.

In June 2015, Dr. Mei Jinhua, a Chinese doctor, faced a critical case at Tiaret Maternity Hospital in Algeria. The patient, a 26-year-old with high blood pressure and uterine rupture, was already in labor at just 31 weeks of pregnancy. After careful consideration, Dr. Mei and the medical team opted for a cesarean section due to the risks involved.

The patient was carrying quadruplets, and Dr. Mei successfully delivered two healthy boys and two healthy girls. This marked the very first safe delivery of quadruplets in the area, bringing immense joy to the mother and earning praise for the Chinese doctors from her family and the local hospital staff.

For over five decades, Chinese medical professionals have played a crucial role in enhancing medical services in Algeria. They have selflessly devoted their time and, tragically, even sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. 

One such example is that of Zeng Junzhen, a 39-year-old ophthalmologist from the Second Hospital of Wuhan City. While serving in Algeria, she succumbed to acute jaundice, leading to liver atrophy, a rapidly progressing and high-risk condition. 

Despite the efforts of her colleagues, she could not be saved. In her final letter to her family, Zeng expressed her honor in sacrificing her life as part of the foreign medical assistance team and urged them not to mourn her.

Building Bonds:

The contributions of Chinese medical professionals have left a lasting impact on Algeria's healthcare system. Their dedication, expertise, and willingness to serve in challenging circumstances have improved medical treatment and garnered deep gratitude from the Algerian people. This longstanding medical cooperation between China and Algeria serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and mutual respect shared by the two nations.

The teams have actively engaged in cultural exchanges, learning from local traditions, customs, and medical practices. These interactions have not only enhanced medical knowledge but have also deepened mutual understanding and respect between the two nations.

Moreover, Chinese medical professionals have actively participated in capacity building programs by training local healthcare workers, sharing knowledge, and promoting sustainable healthcare practices. These collaborative endeavors have helped strengthen Algeria's healthcare system and empowered Algerian professionals to address medical challenges independently.

The Legacy of China-Algeria Medical Cooperation:

The longstanding medical cooperation between China and Algeria serves as a testament to the enduring bond between the two nations. China's unwavering commitment to assisting Algeria's healthcare sector has played a pivotal role in improving medical services and reducing mortality rates in the country.

Furthermore, this collaboration has gone beyond medical assistance, positively impacting the overall bilateral relationship between China and Algeria. The deep-rooted connections forged through healthcare cooperation have facilitated cooperation in various sectors, including trade, infrastructure development, and people-to-people exchanges.

Conclusion: 

China's first overseas medical team in Algeria marked the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in Sino-Algerian relations. For over 60 years, Chinese medical professionals have been at the forefront of healthcare provision in Algeria, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, healing, and friendship.

Their commitment to saving lives and improving healthcare access has transformed countless communities and strengthened the bond between China and Algeria. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, it is crucial to recognize the lasting impact of China's medical assistance, which serves as a shining example of global cooperation in the field of healthcare.