At the Global Health Forum of the Boao Forum for Asia in Beijing, Dr. Tom Frieden, former director of the U.S. CDC and current CEO of Resolve to Save Lives, delivered a clear message: health is a win-win global cause. "Health is not a win-lose situation. When other countries are healthier, all of us are better off," he said in an exclusive CGTN interview.
Frieden warned that international commitments from the United States are waning. "We have been very close to eradication of polio. And right now, the risk is the U.S. will pull the rug out from that effort, and polio could come roaring back," he cautioned. "Public health is under assault in the U.S. today."
At the same time, Dr. Frieden praised the Chinese mainland's advancements in medical research, technological innovation and hospital care, calling them "impressive" and "world-class." He stressed that boosting investments in essential care – local clinics, community health workers and preventive programs – is the most cost-effective way to save lives.
Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, Frieden believes global collaboration remains both possible and crucial. He urged non-governmental organizations to step up efforts in people-to-people exchanges to build trust and ease political strains.
Themed "New Future of Health Industry: Driven by Innovation," this year's Global Health Forum took place over two days in Beijing, spotlighting how technology, policy and cross-border partnerships can reshape public health for everyone.
Reference(s):
Health Talk: Health is a win-win cause, global cooperation essential
cgtn.com
