BEIJING, July 21 -- Starting in late July, the Chinese naval hospital ship Auspicious Ark (Hull 868) will head to Africa and South Asia to carry out the "Harmonious Mission 2026", during which it will provide medical and health services and conduct cultural exchanges. 

This marks the first overseas mission of the hospital ship Auspicious Ark since its commissioning. The mission aims to enhance traditional friendship and practical cooperation between China and relevant countries, provide more public security goods to the international community, better implement the Global Security Initiative, and serve the building of a maritime community with a shared future.