Chinese peacekeepers "blue helmets" in Liberia

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Source: CCTV.com | 02-02-2007 08:17

China has sent more peacekeepers to Liberia than has to any other country in the world. But they're not just helping to keep the peace. They're also promoting friendship between the two peoples.

The Liberian girl in the center of this picture is Li Hua. 'Li' for Liberia and 'Hua' for China.

Her mother says she owes her life to the Chinese peacekeeping medical team.

On July 25th 2006, when Li Hua's mother arrived heavily pregnant in this Chinese peacekeeping hospital, both of their lives were in danger.

Chen Haihua, nurse

Chen Haihua, charge nurse chinese peacekeeping forces, said, "When they arrived, the mother was hemorrhaging. Doctors from the local hospital said the child would die. But according to our diagnosis, prompt treatment could save both their lives. The problem was, we didn't have the experience or equipment for delivering babies. In the end, we performed the operation with guidance from other doctors over the phone. And after eight hours of struggling, both lives were saved."

Cases like this are common. The 43 members of the medical contingent is responsible for 5,000 peacekeepers' health in the region.

Chinese peacekeeper in Liberia. (File Photo)

But Chen Haihua says that only makes up half of their work. As well as treating the troops, these doctors work to improve the health of local residents.

Chen Haihua, charge nurse chinese peacekeeping forces, said, "Free medical service is another part of our daily work. Local hospitals often send patients to us. Usually a truckload in the morning, and another in the afternoon. We also go regularly to nearby villages to help those who need us."