DILI, 14 October 2025 (TATOLI) – José Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste and Nobel Peace Laureate, on Tuesday awarded the Medal of Merit and Diplomas of Recognition to 12 members of the 10th Chinese Medical Aid Team for their outstanding contribution to the country’s health sector.
The ceremony recognized the long-standing medical cooperation between Timor-Leste and People’s Republic of China.
This partnership began during Timor-Leste’s First Constitutional Government. China dispatched its first medical aid team in December 2003, and the first batch started supporting Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares in January 2004.
Since then, Chinese medical brigades have rotated every two years, with 123 medical professionals serving in Timor-Leste over the past two decades.
The 10th batch of the Chinese Medical Aid Team, composed of 12 medical professionals from Sichuan Provincial Health Commission, worked for two years at the National Hospital and other health centers across the country.
Their specialties included cardiology, urology, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, anesthesia, traditional Chinese medicine rehabilitation, nursing, intensive care, and radiology.
During their mission, the team treated over 19,000 outpatient emergencies, facilitated 5,800 hospitalizations, and performed 1,300 surgeries.
They also organized more than ten free clinic missions in remote areas such as Atauro, Laga, and Liquica, offering diagnosis, treatment, and medicine to thousands of citizens.
The team also conducted public health outreach, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid training for communities, university faculty, and corporate staff.
They actively participated in national and international scientific symposiums to help strengthen the country’s medical knowledge and capacity.
Under Presidential Decree No. 101/2025, the following 12 medical professionals were awarded the Medal of Merit and Diplomas of Recognition:
- Dr. Luo Wei (Radiologist)
- Dr. Xie Guoping (Urologist)
- Dr. Zhou Wenyi (Chef)
- Dr. Zeng Dongxu (Interpreter)
- Dr. Hou Chunmeng (ICU Doctor)
- Dr. Liu Lan (Orthopaedist)
- Dr. Lei Bibo (Anaesthesiologist)
- Dr. Qin Han (Surgeon)
- Dr. Yang Qinggao (Cardiologist)
- Dr. Wang Wei (Nurse)
- Dr. Zou Wenjing (Acupuncturist)
- Dr. Chen Liju (Gynaecologist and Obstetrician)
President Ramos-Horta said the award reflects the nation’s deep appreciation. “The awarding of the Medal of Merit to these twelve dedicated doctors symbolizes the deep gratitude of the people of Timor-Leste. Their service embodies the spirit of international cooperation and has saved countless lives, advanced our medical capabilities, and strengthened the bonds of friendship and solidarity between our two nations,” he stated.
The 10th Chinese Medical Aid Team has completed its mission in Timor-Leste. The new 11th batch of 12 medical brigades from Sichuan Province is scheduled to arrive on 15 October 2025 to continue supporting the country’s healthcare system.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
