China has solidified its position as a key player in global health governance through decades of medical diplomacy, with 2024 marking one of its most active years to date. Over 1,000 Chinese medical professionals were deployed to 59 countries and regions this year alone, providing critical care to more than 2 million patients worldwide.
The naval hospital ship Peace Ark has become a floating symbol of this commitment since its 2010 maiden voyage. By the end of 2024, the vessel completed 14 years of 'Harmony Missions,' delivering medical services to 370,000 people across 49 countries and regions from Southeast Asia to Africa.
National Health Commission head Lei Haichao recently revealed the staggering scale of China's six-decade health outreach: 'Our 30,000 medical personnel have treated 300 million patients in 77 countries since 1963'. The COVID-19 pandemic saw this commitment intensify, with China distributing 500 billion PPE items and 2.3 billion vaccine doses globally.
This medical cooperation forms part of China's broader strategy to strengthen global health infrastructure. Analysts note these efforts particularly benefit developing nations lacking advanced healthcare systems, while fostering long-term international partnerships.
