China is increasing its global influence by pledging $500 million to the World Health Organization (WHO), stepping in as the United States retreats from international cooperation. This contribution positions China to become the WHO’s top state donor, challenging what Beijing views as “unilateralism” often associated with Washington, especially as relations between the two countries deteriorate.

Chinese Vice Premier Liu Guozhong announced this pledge at the World Health Assembly, emphasizing solidarity and mutual assistance as essential for global health security. This move is seen as China filling a global leadership void left by the Trump administration's “America First” foreign policy, particularly after the U.S. withdrawal from the WHO ordered in January by then President Donald Trump.

Zhao Minghao, a professor of international relations at Fudan University in Shanghai, noted that the Trump administration’s stance on international governance has created opportunities for Chinese diplomacy. While U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. criticized the WHO as “moribund” and “mired in bureaucratic bloat,” China is portraying itself as a responsible global leader, defending the international order.

Under the leadership of Xi Jinping, China is pursuing a more assertive foreign policy, aiming to replace the U.S. as the world’s preeminent power by fostering stronger international relationships and reshaping global rules. Zhao anticipates China playing a larger role in international cooperation, not only in public health but also in climate change and green-energy transition, highlighting China's significant production of electric cars and batteries.

In a parallel development, China is also deepening its health sector collaboration with Zambia, especially as Western donor support decreases. A delegation from Sichuan Province arrived in Lusaka to explore integrating traditional and modern healthcare strategies. Zambia’s Minister of Health, Dr. Joseph Katema Muchima, welcomed this collaboration, emphasizing the country’s openness to incorporating Chinese medicine and reducing reliance on imported pharmaceuticals.

This partnership follows the withdrawal of major foreign health funding, including HIV/AIDS support under PEPFAR, indicating a shift towards South-South cooperation. Chinese health officials proposed collaborative efforts in herbal medicine research, local drug production, and infrastructure upgrades. Exchanges with Chinese medical universities are planned to enhance the skills of Zambian professionals. Traditional leaders and local medical practitioners support expanding community health models that blend indigenous knowledge with modern science. A formal cooperation framework between the Ministry of Health and the Chinese Embassy is expected in the coming months.