China rescue team retains UN accreditation

The China International Search and Rescue Team (China Rescue) on Thursday retained an accreditation that allows it to continue taking part in disaster rescue and relief across the world.

It was required to pass an evaluation by the International Search and Rescue Advisory Group (INSARAG), an organization under the United Nations umbrella, to once again be certified as a Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Team. The team last passed the test in 2009.

According to the China Earthquake Administration, the evaluation lasted 37 hours from Tuesday to Thursday, testing the team's efficiency in preparation, mobilization, action and withdrawal as well as its capabilities in search and rescue and providing medical support.

Nine INSARAG experts unanimously determined that the team passed the test, said the administration in a statement.

China Rescue was founded in 2001. It has participated in rescue operations in countries including Algeria, Indonesia, Iran, New Zealand and Japan, as well as domestic missions in Xinjiang, Sichuan, Qinghai and Yunnan.