AsianScientist (Sep. 7, 2017) – The World health Organization (WHO) will receive US$20 million from China to improve the health of billions of people represented in the 60 countries engaged in the Belt and Road Initiative.
This came after WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus concluded a three-day official visit to the People’s Republic of China, paving the way for stronger and more strategic WHO-China collaborations.
While in Beijing, Tedros met privately with Premier Li Keqiang for a high-level discussion on a more strategic partnership between WHO and China, as well as how China can expand its international health security cooperation in Belt and Road countries. He also met with Vice Premier Mr. Liu Yandong, Vice Chairman Mr. Han Qide of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and National Health and Family Planning Commission Minister, Mr. Li Bin.
A memorandum of understanding was signed wherein China will contribute US$20 million in support of WHO’s global work. WHO and China also agreed to enhance collaboration to reduce the impact of health emergencies, build stronger health systems to deliver universal health coverage and focus on the well-being of women, children and adolescents.
In addition to official government meetings, Tedros interacted with more than 200 young health leaders in Beijing. Tedros encouraged the young leaders to inspire their peers and loved ones to make healthy choices. He also made time to visit the WHO China offices and meet with staff, where he spoke passionately about WHO’s mission to ensure that all people have access to quality health care services.
“China’s health reforms show it’s possible to implement far-reaching, quality transformations in a short time. Its success in providing 95 percent of its population with access to health insurance is a model for other countries to follow so that we can make our world fairer, healthier and safer. We can all learn something from China,” said Tedros.
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Source: World Health Organization; Photo: Shutterstock.
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