Zhang Jing, a researcher at Tsinghua University International Center for Communication Studies, echoed Zhao's views, saying: "Throughout history, China has consistently upheld the principles of equality and peace, be it during the 15th-century voyages commanded by Zheng He or in the present day."

By upholding the principles of equality and peace, China strives to create a shared future for mankind. Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, China can actively contribute to global governance and provide public goods, especially health products, to people in other countries, she added.

Since China sent the first foreign medical team to Algeria in 1963, a total of 30,000 medical personnel have treated 290 million patients in 76 countries and regions across five continents as of February, according to China's Foreign Ministry.

In the past six decades, Chinese medical teams have helped local people through their medical proficiency. After the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa in 2014, China sent more than 1,200 medical workers to treat more than 800 patients and provided health training to more than 12,000 people.

BRI's 10th anniversary

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the proposal of the Belt and Road Initiative, and China proposed the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Jia Duqiang, an associate researcher of Southeast Asian studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said: "Together these initiatives embody a Chinese solution to global governance, aiming to foster common development and advance the world toward the ultimate goal of a community with a shared future for mankind.

"Their alignment with the interests of the international community and various parties has garnered support from numerous countries. They offer a fresh perspective and act as a driving force for promoting peace and large-scale cooperation worldwide in the future."

Meanwhile, nearly two months after the surgery, Lelekele has returned to her post as a nurse, saying she feels good about the recovery.

"I would like to thank the Chinese government for this medical ship that came right to our doorstep to help the unlucky ones", she said, adding that when the ship visits Vanuatu again, she will volunteer to become a member of this "boat of life".

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