Chinese rescue team leaves Islamabad for Beijing

A 41-member rescue team sent by the China International Search and Rescue (CISAR) left the Pakistani capital of Islamabad on Thursday morning for Beijing on board a chartered plane after offering medical aid in the earthquake-hit region of Balakot.

Zhao Heping, head of the second Chinese rescue contingent sent to Pakistan, said the team has made wide-acclaimed achievements in Balakot, as it set up a mobile hospital with advanced equipment and facilities to assist local people and assigned medical staff to the quake-hit areas.

He said the Chinese team has gained positive appraisal from the people and international rescue organizations here with its high- quality medical service and sincere attitude.

The Chinese government dispatched the second team of CISAR shortly after the return of the first team, at the request of the World Health Organization (WHO) and in accordance with the Pakistani real situation. The government also provided the team with the best equipment and facilities.

"The Chinese government attached much concern over the disaster- hit Pakistani people, and will always give them help as much as possible," Zhao said.

Before departing, CISAR donated the mobile hospital and its tents to a local hospital of Balakot.

Over the past 18 days, the mobile hospital treated more than 2, 000 patients and dispatched medical teams to villages in mountainous areas.

Earlier, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf specially visited the Chinese mobile hospital during his inspection tour of Balakot. Musharraf spoke highly of the team's work and extended his heart- felt gratitude to the Chinese government and people.

CISAR second team spokesman Huang Jianfa told Xinhua that the team has eight women medical workers who are greatly welcomed by local people as the Pakistani women never go to see a man doctor due to local customs.

Source: Xinhua