In Algeria, Dr. Lu Yuanzheng, a Chinese doctor from Shiyan in central China's Hubei Province, has been quietly fostering friendship through traditional Chinese medicine. Since 2017, as part of China's 27th medical aid team to Algeria, he has been working in the city of Setif, employing acupuncture to provide relief and hope to local patients.

In Algeria, acupuncture is affectionately referred to as 'Libaira,' which translates to 'needle treatment.' This term originated in 1963 when China sent its first medical team to North Africa. Acupuncture became popular quickly, prized for its affordability, effectiveness, and rapid results, earning it the nickname 'the magic needles of China.' Today, Dr. Lu continues to uphold this legacy.

One of Dr. Lu's most memorable cases involved a teenage girl suffering from facial paralysis. After her mother sought treatment throughout Algeria without success, she brought her to Dr. Lu as a last hope. Following several acupuncture sessions, the girl made a complete recovery, and her family expressed heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Lu and the healing power of traditional Chinese medicine.

Over the years, interest in Chinese medicine has surged in Algeria. Many young Algerians are now pursuing studies in China and returning to establish their own clinics. At the University of Algiers 1 Faculty of Medicine, Chinese professors frequently conduct lectures on acupuncture and herbal medicine, attracting large crowds of attentive students and doctors.

Dr. Lu recalls fondly, 'When I searched for the word 'acupuncture' online, I found that most content was shared by foreigners. They are eager to experience it, and once they see the results, they cannot wait to learn.' After each lecture, he and his colleagues are surrounded by enthusiastic participants—students, professors, and practitioners—eager to deepen their understanding of acupuncture and connect with their Chinese counterparts.

From Setif to Algiers, Dr. Lu Yuanzheng and countless Chinese doctors have brought health, compassion, and cultural exchange to the people of Africa, allowing the ancient art of Chinese acupuncture to shine brightly under the Mediterranean sun.