The China-aided Luang Prabang Hospital in northern Laos has officially opened its doors following a handover ceremony, Global Times reported.

The event was attended by key officials, including Lao Health Minister Bounfeng Phoummalaysith and Chinese Ambassador to Laos Fang Hong.

The renovation and expansion project of the hospital encompassed the addition of new surgical and cardiovascular buildings, accommodation for Chinese experts and essential infrastructure such as sewage treatment plants and fire-fighting pools.

Works also included setting up pump rooms and necessary equipment to enhance the hospital's medical treatment capabilities.

The news publication quoted Bounfeng as saying in his speech that the Luang Prabang Hospital reflects China's support for the livelihood of the Lao people.

He added: “Laos is willing to learn from China's experience in comprehensively deepening reform and to further strengthen cooperation with China in the field of medical and health care.”

Commenting on the opening, Hong said that China is willing to share its experience in medical and health reform with Laos, and jointly implement important measures for building a China-Laos community.

China will also offer technical assistance to enhance medical treatment capabilities to transform the Luang Prabang Hospital into a central hospital for northern Laos.

The latest development comes after Peking University People’s Hospital commenced construction of a new branch in Hebei’s Xiong’an New Area, China.

According to the Xiong’an New Area management committee, the new branch in the Rongdong area covers 7.64ha. It is planned to have a 1,000-bed capacity.