US naval hospital ship arrives in East Timor

28/08/2006 14:53:43

A United States naval hospital ship has arrived in the East Timor capital, Dili, to provide humanitarian and civic assistance.

A US embassy statement says USS Mercy will provide a broad range of assistance including specialised surgical procedures, general medical and dental support.

The ship's small team of sailors will also perform infrastructure repairs and minor construction projects to improve basic health and living conditions.

The Mercy has previously called at regional ports in the Philippines, Bangladesh and Indonesia.

Calm has largely returned to the country after a wave of violence, arson and looting from April to June after the sacking of 600 soldiers from the west of the country who had complained of discrimination.

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