The 5th World Health Forum opened Saturday at the China National Convention Center in Beijing. Experts and scholars from 21 countries and regions, along with representatives from international organizations and Chinese government departments, gathered to engage in in-depth discussions under the theme "Climate Change and Health: Responsibility, Governance and a Shared Future for Mankind."

Former United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized that 10 years after the signing of the Paris Agreement, climate change has become one of the most urgent public health crises of our time. He stressed that humanity stands at a critical crossroads and must quickly translate climate commitments into concrete action.

Ban noted that extreme weather events like heat waves and floods are testing global health systems like never before. He called on countries to move beyond rhetoric, prioritize climate action as a public health imperative, break down barriers and strengthen multilateral cooperation. He underscored that no country can tackle this challenge alone and urged collective efforts to leave behind a sustainable planet and society for future generations.

Shen Hongbing, deputy director of China's National Health Commission, outlined China's strategy for addressing climate change. He stated that proactive climate action is an essential part of achieving high-quality development and building a "Beautiful China." Policies such as the China National Climate Change and Health Adaptation Action Plan (2024–2030) have established a systematic framework for action, he added.

Shen stressed that China is committed to implementing both mitigation and adaptation strategies through legal, administrative, technological and market-based measures, demonstrating its responsibility as a major country.

Saia Ma'u Piukala, World Health Organization (WHO) regional director for the Western Pacific, highlighted the climate challenges facing Pacific Island nations and commended China's leadership in improving air quality and promoting low-carbon and clean energy initiatives. He urged governments and partners to build more resilient and sustainable health systems to protect future generations.

Li Luming, president of Tsinghua University, shared the university’s innovative efforts to address climate change. He noted that Tsinghua leverages its interdisciplinary strengths in talent cultivation, research, and international collaboration and will continue contributing momentum to global climate and public health governance.

Margaret Chan, chair of the World Health Forum and founding dean of Vanke School of Public Health at Tsinghua University, and also emeritus director-general of WHO, pointed out that the frontier of public health has expanded from clinical settings to the climate negotiation table, calling on young people to step up and take responsibility.

Chan emphasized that the Vanke School of Public Health at Tsinghua University is breaking down disciplinary barriers and fostering cross-sector talent, working to translate cutting-edge research into national development and global governance, and helping build a more equitable and resilient global health community.

The forum will feature multiple themed discussions. Over 60 experts from around the world will exchange views on topics such as climate-related health risk assessment and early warning system development. The event aims to build international consensus, inspire innovation and promote the integrated development of climate governance and health promotion.