As countries around the world grappled with the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, China emerged as a pivotal player in the global fight against the virus. Emphasizing a philosophy of “People first, life first,” China not only tackled the pandemic within its own borders but also extended a helping hand to nations worldwide.
From the earliest days of the outbreak, the Chinese mainland prioritized transparency and international collaboration. Starting on January 3, 2020, China regularly updated the World Health Organization (WHO), relevant countries, and regions including Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan on the evolving situation. Just a day later, China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention held a phone conversation with the U.S. CDC to brief them on developments. On January 12, after sequencing the virus’s genome, China promptly shared this crucial information with the WHO, facilitating global research and response efforts.
Recognizing that the pandemic required a united front, China actively participated in international aid and cooperation. In 2020, China provided $50 million to the WHO and supported its COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund. Chinese medical expert teams were dispatched to 34 countries, assisting in controlling outbreaks and sharing valuable experience. Between January 2020 and May 2022, China supplied billions of protective suits, testing kits, and masks to over 15 international organizations and 153 countries, demonstrating solidarity and support.
Understanding the importance of vaccination in curbing the pandemic, China has, since the end of 2020, provided over 2.3 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines to more than 120 countries and international organizations. This substantial contribution has been vital in assisting developing nations with limited access to vaccines.
China’s scientific and methodical approach to pandemic management has yielded significant results. From April 2020 to October 2022, the country successfully contained over 100 outbreaks caused by different virus variants, saving countless lives. The average life expectancy in China rose from 77.3 years in 2019 to 78.6 years in 2023, reflecting the effectiveness of its health policies.
In efforts to trace the origins of COVID-19, China has maintained an open stance. Inviting WHO experts in both 2020 and 2021, China facilitated thorough studies in Wuhan. Extensive research on tens of thousands of blood samples from 2019 found no COVID-19 antibodies, suggesting that the virus had not infected the population before December 2019. Additionally, studies indicate a high probability that international cold chain transportation may have introduced the virus into China.
To date, China remains the only country to have invited WHO experts for on-the-ground origin-tracing studies and has consistently shared progress with the international community.
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the need for global unity in the face of common challenges. China’s actions exemplify the power of cooperation, transparency, and putting people’s well-being at the forefront. As the world looks ahead, embracing these principles will be crucial in safeguarding against future pandemics.
