"Italy is proud of the operation Hippocrates, a humanitarian action requested by the Libyan government to treat the fighters committed to free Libya from terrorism", said General Claudio Graziano, head of the Defense General Staff, during his first visit to the Italian soldiers engaged in Misurata. "Our armed forces will continue to ensure the mission until it is deemed necessary by the Libyan authorities".
In his speech before the Italian contingent, the Chief of the Defense Staff pointed out:
"The pride I feel towards you is great for the commitment, the skills and the professionalism shown and of which I have received certificates of sincere gratitude from the Libyan authorities."
"In the framework of the national commitment to ensure peace and the defense of national interests, the stability of Libya is a strategic priority." He added General Graziano.
The full operation of the military hospital - with 50 beds and capacity for neurosurgery, maxillofacial, hand and vascular surgery - has been ensured starting from 19 October 2016. Up to now about 3000 services have been performed including surgeries, visits and consultancy.
The Italian medical staff is lending its services not only in the military structure but also assists the Libyan medical personnel at the Misurata civil hospital and is also able to provide training and assistance to the local medical teams, to increase their capacities.
During the visit, General Graziano met with military authorities and local civilians inside the military airport.
