Côte d’Ivoire and China are strengthening their military and healthcare cooperation as the Chinese naval hospital ship Peace Ark makes a stop in the country for a medical and humanitarian mission scheduled to run from October 14 to 21.

The mission, known as “Harmony 2026,” will provide free medical consultations and specialized healthcare to people in Côte d’Ivoire, while creating opportunities for medical professionals from both countries to exchange expertise.

On Wednesday, October 14, Ivorian Armed Forces Chief of General Staff General Lassina Doumbia received a delegation from the Chinese hospital ship at the Army Headquarters in Abidjan.

The meeting focused on bilateral relations between Côte d’Ivoire and China, particularly cooperation in military affairs and healthcare. The visit reflects efforts by both countries to translate their partnership into practical initiatives combining humanitarian assistance and military engagement.

Following the meeting, China’s ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Wu Jie, thanked the Ivorian military authorities for welcoming the delegation and supporting the mission.

“I am convinced that the hospital ship’s mission will be successful thanks to his support and that of the Ivorian side,” the ambassador said, adding that the initiative would help strengthen cooperation between the two countries and their armed forces, as well as friendship between their peoples.

During its stay, the Peace Ark and its medical team are expected to provide free consultations and specialized medical services. The mission also offers a platform for exchanges between Ivorian and Chinese healthcare professionals.

Beyond the immediate medical assistance, the visit is intended to encourage the sharing of experience between the two countries’ military personnel and broaden cooperation between their armed forces.

The deployment highlights the role of military medical missions in combining humanitarian support with international partnerships, particularly in the healthcare sector.

For Côte d’Ivoire and China, the visit provides an opportunity to strengthen existing ties and explore further areas of cooperation, with an emphasis on mutual benefit and initiatives that serve local communities.

The “Harmony 2026” mission is scheduled to conclude on October 21.