The Permanent Mission of China to the United Nations together with the permanent missions of the United Kingdom, Ghana, Mexico and South Africa, and the World Health Organization jointly organized a virtual event on antimicrobial resistance on 17 December, which was attended by President of the 75th session of the United Nations General Assembly H.E. Mr. Volkan Bozkir and Director-General of the World Health Organization Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Ambassador Dai Bing, Chargé d'Affaires of the Permanent Mission of China to the United Nations, delivered remarks at the event.

Ambassador Dai Bing pointed out that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a growing threat to public health, agriculture, economic growth and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. Combating AMR is a race against time which needs global concerted efforts.

Ambassador Dai Bing said that countries need to follow the "One Health" approach as the guideline. AMR involves many fields, including human health, animal health and agriculture. It requires a coordinated whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. China has established a joint prevention and control working mechanism on AMR with the participation of 14 government agencies, and issued the National Action Plan to Contain AMR for 2016 to 2020. The next 5-year national plan is being drafted.

Ambassador Dai Bing emphasized that countries need to enhance international cooperation. AMR is a global challenge that no single country can fight alone. China has taken an active part in international cooperation on AMR. In 2016, during China’s Presidency for the G20, the issue of AMR was addressed in G20 Leaders’ Communiqué to call for global actions. China has also provided considerable assistance to help developing countries enhance medical and public health capacities.

Ambassador Dai Bing noted that countries need to improve the global health governance. Multilateralism is essential to addressing global challenges. All countries should support the UN’s role in leading and coordinating global actions and ensure more resources for the WHO. It is also important to address the AMR issue systemically within the framework of the 2030 Agenda. By eradicating poverty and hunger, improving people's physical fitness and stemming the spread of infectious diseases, the use of antibiotics can be significantly reduced.

Ambassador Dai Bing called on all sides to continue to actively engage in AMR global governance and work together towards a healthier, greener and better future.