The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Naval Hospital Ship Ark Silk Road arrived at the King’s Wharf in Suva today, where it was ceremonially welcomed by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Navy Band.

Representing the RFMF at the welcoming ceremony was the RFMF Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Sapenafa Motufaga, and the Chief Staff Officer of International Defence Cooperation, Major Atonio Nagauna.

The state-of-the-art hospital ship is equipped with 14 clinical departments, modern operating theaters, and advanced diagnostic facilities. During its visit, the Ark Silk Road will provide free medical consultations and public health services to the people of Fiji.

As part of Mission Harmony-2025, Fiji is one of several Pacific Island nations hosting the vessel. The engagement is aimed at enhancing people-to-people exchanges, strengthening medical cooperation, and deepening bilateral ties between Fiji and China.

The visit underscores the RFMF’s ongoing role in fostering regional defence partnerships and humanitarian collaboration and the well-being of communities.