Israel to assist in medical aid to PNG
Townsville-based charity, YWAM Medical Ships, has signed a Joint Declaration of Intent (DOI) with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel aboard the YWAM Medical Ship, MV YWAM PNG.
The performers from “YWAM Paradise”, YWAM’s Papua New Guinean cultural performance group, and Ken Mulligan, their managing director, along with the Ambassador.
The DOI outlines a mutual desire to work together for the development of Papua New Guinea (PNG), including the provision of medical treatment, training opportunities for PNG’s health workforce, and capacity building projects.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel will also be encouraging Israeli medical professionals to volunteer onboard YWAM’s Medical Ship, MV YWAM PNG, in rural and remote areas of PNG.
The ambassador of Israel to Australia Shmuel Ben-Shmuel said that he was pleased to be signing the DOI on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today.
Ken Mulligan and Ambassador Shmuel Ben-Shmuel after the signing
“YWAM Medical Ships is achieving such wonderful outcomes in remote areas of Papua New Guinea…
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,” said Ambassador Ben-Shmuel.
YWAM Medical Ships’ Managing Director, Mr Ken Mulligan, said the signing of the DOI was a positive step toward progressing YWAM Medical Ships’ relationship with the nation of 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.
“We are looking forward to learning from one another as we continue to proceed with establishing this important partnership.
“We are proud to be hosting the State of Israel delegation in Townsville today. The visit also serves as an opportunity to strengthen Townsville’s international inks,” said Mr Mulligan.
The signing of the DOI followed YWAM’s Breakfast by the Sea fundraising event yesterday morning, over 700 guests gathered to show their support for Papua New Guinea.
