Chinese premier calls for global cooperation on traditional medicine

Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Saturday called on the international community to strengthen cooperation in medicine, make better use of the world's traditional medicine resources, and jointly address challenges to human health.

Li made the remarks while addressing the opening ceremony of the World Conference on Traditional Medicine 2026 in Beijing, which was attended by about 1,200 participants.

Noting that traditional medicine is a unique force for safeguarding human health and advancing civilization, Li said that China's traditional medicine has followed a distinctive path of development through long-term practice.

He underlined the need to harness science and technology to accelerate the innovative development of traditional medicine. China will promote the digital and intelligent transformation of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and encourage and support active participation by Chinese and foreign research institutions and enterprises, he said.

Li called for deeper exchanges and cooperation in the sector and expressed China's willingness to expand pilot programs to open up the medical service sector and work with all parties to advance the development of the Belt and Road medicinal resources conservation center.

Li said efforts should also be made to promote inclusive access and advance global health equity. China will fulfill its responsibilities to the best of its ability and contribute to bridging the global health divide, he added.

Li noted that when people fall ill, they need treatment and care. Likewise, when the world encounters problems and challenges in its development, it requires governance.

TCM emphasizes a holistic approach and harmony in treating diseases, focusing on systematic treatment and strengthening the body's foundations. Economic governance follows a similar principle, Li said, adding that no single model can solve every problem. He called on countries to embrace greater wisdom in fostering inclusiveness and harmony, and be less fixated on zero-sum games and the shortsightedness of pursuing policies at the expense of neighboring countries.