Israel signs deal to help PNG hospital ship take healthcare to remote areas

National

ISRAEL will provide doctors, surgeons and medical specialists to work on the Youth with a mission (Ywam) medical ships serving people in the remote areas of Papua New Guinea.
Israel Ambassador Shmuel Ben-Shmuel signed an agreement on behalf of his nation’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs with Ywam medical ships last Friday.
He praised the Ywam medical ships for “achieving such wonderful outcomes in remote areas of PNG”.
“This unique partnership is the first of its kind, aiming to bring Israeli doctors, surgeons and specialists to serve on the ship to support the delivery of expert healthcare,” he said.
Ywam medical ships managing director Ken Mulligan said the signing of the agreement was a positive step towards progressing the relationship with Israel.
“Ywam is an international organisation that is now operating in 180 countries around the world. We believe that every nation has unique gifts and strengths that they bring,” Mulligan said.
“We are looking forward to learning from one another as we continue to proceed with establishing this important partnership.”
The signing of the agreement followed Ywam’s “Breakfast by the Sea” fundraising event on Thursday attended by more than 700 guests.
Supporters of the Ywam Medical Ships work in PNG include the government, Puma Energy and Steamships Trading Company.
The agreement outlines a mutual desire to work together for the development of PNG, including the provision of medical treatment, training opportunities for PNG’s health workers and capacity building projects.