PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (CMC) — The Government of Haiti has dispatched a humanitarian medical mission to Venezuela to assist victims of the devastating earthquakes that struck the South American country on June 24, despite the economic and security challenges facing the French-speaking Caribbean nation.

The mission, led by Haiti’s Minister of Public Health and Population, Dr Sinal Bertrand, arrived in Venezuela on Tuesday with a team of 29 specialist physicians and 5.5 tonnes of medical supplies to support relief and recovery efforts.

Venezuela is continuing to grapple with the aftermath of twin earthquakes that authorities say killed 3,685 people, injured more than 16,700 others and left thousands missing.

The Haitian delegation includes specialists in orthopedics, surgery, anesthesiology, gynecology and internal medicine, who will work alongside Venezuelan health officials in providing care to those affected by the disaster.

According to the Haitian Government, the humanitarian shipment also includes ultrasound machines, oxygen concentrators and specialised pediatric medical equipment.

“We did not come here to deliver leftovers, but to share what little we have with the Bolivarian people of Venezuela as a sign of solidarity and fraternity,” Bertrand said upon the delegation’s arrival.

“We did not send a consultative delegation; we came with specialists ready to make themselves available to the Venezuelan Government for 15, 20 or 30 days, or even as long as necessary,” he added.

The delegation was received at Simón Bolívar International Airport by Venezuelan health officials, including Vice Minister of Outpatient Care Networks, Dr Noly Fernández.

Fernández thanked the Haitian Government and people for their support, describing the mission as a powerful demonstration of regional solidarity during one of Venezuela’s most difficult periods.

She said Venezuelan health authorities are coordinating the deployment of the Haitian medical personnel to some of the areas hardest hit by the disaster, particularly Caracas and the state of La Guaira.

“Venezuela welcomes them with great love, solidarity and respect for Bolivarian ideals. We share a common history that will allow us to move forward together,” Fernández said.

The Haitian Government said the mission reflects its commitment to humanitarian cooperation and regional solidarity, extending condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones and expressing confidence in Venezuela’s ability to recover from the tragedy.

Officials said the medical team will remain in Venezuela for as long as needed to assist with emergency healthcare services and support ongoing recovery efforts.