A French medical team has arrived in Guangyuan city to provide assistance. The doctors are staying at Guangyuan Central Hospital, where staff say they're looking forward to successful cooperation.

The doctors toured the hospital and checked on injured patients. The head of the team asked for details about a patient who was buried in rubble for more than 160 hours after the disaster. He said the elderly man has received very good treatment.

Christian Decanlevs, Head of French Medical Team said "We will divide our members into 3 emergency groups. This is based on the requirements of the local hospital."

Zhang Shaoyi, Guangyuan Central Hospital said "These are professionals. And they are working very hard and in earnest. We expect to have them working in emergency care, ICU and other departments where first aid is needed."

The doctors said they hope to adapt to the new environment quickly, but their biggest concern is the language barrier. Luckily, they have three interpreters, one from France, and two from Chengdu.

The hospital has already transferred more than 200 of its patients to other provinces. But after Sunday’s strong aftershock that hit Qingchuan county, more injured people are expected to be transferred here. And the hospital believes the French medical team can be of great assistance.

One French doctor said "In the face of these difficulties, I am pleased to be able to help the people here who have suffered from the earthquake."

This team consists of 13 people, including doctors, nurses and logistics personnel, who all have experience in disaster relief and rescue. They plan to stay here for about two weeks.

(CCTV May 27, 2008)