Chinese doctors successfully perform 318 cataract surgeries in Urgench

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The international humanitarian project “Journey of Light,” implemented with the participation of Chinese ophthalmologists, has concluded in Urgench, the Dunyo agency reports. Over eight days, specialists from China and Uzbekistan jointly performed 318 cataract removal surgeries using the phacoemulsification (PHACO) method.

The project was organized by the Center for International Exchanges and Cooperation of China’s National Health Commission, with the support of doctors from Peking University People’s Hospital.

The initiative marked the first practical step toward fulfilling the commitments announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping during the “SCO Plus” meeting held on 1 September in Tianjin. Under this program, China plans to carry out 5,000 cataract surgeries for citizens of Shanghai Cooperation Organization member countries.

The Chinese medical team performed up to 62 surgeries per day, including a complex double operation for a patient from Samarkand suffering from congenital microphthalmia and glaucoma.

In addition to residents of Urgench, 22 patients from the Republic of Karakalpakstan also received treatment, arriving with the hope of restoring their sight.

The “Journey of Light” project not only made a significant contribution to improving public health but also marked an important stage in the development of the strategic partnership between China and Uzbekistan, serving as a practical embodiment of the “Healthy Silk Road” concept.