China Launches New Medical Outreach Initiative on Tonga's Eua Island to Strengthen Healthcare Collaboration

The fifth batch of the Chinese medical team in Tonga has successfully concluded a weeklong medical outreach at Niu'eiki Hospital on Eua Island, marking a **historic first for Chinese medical missions** in the region. This initiative represents a significant advancement in the ongoing health partnership between China and Tonga, opening new avenues for collaboration and service delivery to remote populations.

Undeterred by the seasonal rains, challenging terrains, and language differences, medical professionals carried portable diagnostic and treatment equipment directly to patients, some of whom are rarely able to access healthcare services. One elderly resident described her appreciation, saying, “The Chinese doctors came to my doorstep. Their help gave me new hope in life.”

Over the course of their visit, the team provided care to more than 300 patients and conducted free health screenings for over 200 local residents. The outreach focused on both chronic and acute health issues, including obesity, hypertension, diabetes, dermatology, and orthopedic conditions. These efforts were complemented by personalized treatment plans and health consultations, as the team leader highlighted, earning widespread recognition from the local community.

Local medical staff have also emphasized the value of the exchange, noting that the team’s presence had a profound impact not just on patient care, but also on medical capacity-building. "The Chinese doctors not only provided professional medical services but also shared their valuable experience with us, which is of great significance in improving our medical capabilities," remarked Kafoaatu Tupou Moa, a senior nurse at Niu'eiki Hospital.

With expertise spanning gynecology, orthopedics, ultrasound, anesthesiology, psychiatry, and pathology, the team engaged in wide-ranging activities. In addition to joint ward rounds and outpatient consultations, they provided telemedicine services, home visits, and health education campaigns aimed at early disease detection and prevention. Free medicine distribution and advice on lifestyle improvements further contributed to the well-being of local residents.

Chinese Ambassador to Tonga Liu Weimin visited the hospital during the mission, expressing his support and highlighting the importance of such grassroots efforts in strengthening bilateral ties.

Demonstrating a commitment to holistic health and cultural exchange, the team also introduced Baduanjin, a traditional Chinese Qigong exercise. Local residents enthusiastically participated, reflecting an openness to new approaches in preventive care and wellness.

Local health officials praised the visit, expressing hope for continued cooperation and regular outreach to other outer islands. "The Chinese medical team has truly brought health benefits to the people of Eua Island. We are grateful for their hard work and look forward to more visits that will provide better healthcare services to people on outer islands," stated acting medical officer Doctor Petrick Penitani.

Team leader Lu Qingyang emphasized that this mission is only the beginning. "It is the first time the Chinese medical team has conducted medical services on Eua Island. We will make such missions a regular practice to ensure more island residents receive proper healthcare. We will also deepen cooperation with Tonga's health authorities to enhance telemedicine, talent training, and other long-term mechanisms," he said.

The outreach, held from May 19 to 26, has been strongly acknowledged by Tonga’s Ministry of Health, further reinforcing the foundation for future cooperation in the public health sector. Since arriving in Tonga in July 2024, the fifth batch of Chinese medical specialists—dispatched from Shandong Province—has treated over 3,000 patients and provided high-quality services through multiple free clinics.

With over 30 medical professionals dispatched to Tonga since 2018, China-Tonga medical cooperation continues to expand, laying a solid groundwork for future joint initiatives. The success of this recent mission on Eua Island is expected to inspire further collaborations, contributing to efforts towards a global community of health for all.