China's growing excellence in scientific and medical research is playing a major role in the global war on pathogens（病原体） and infectious diseases, according to Alain Merieux, chairman and CEO of French Conglomerate Institute Merieux. Merieux has made a massive contribution to improving China's public health over the past 40 years, initially by providing vaccines, and then through medical diagnostics and immunotherapy.
He first visited the country in April 1978, several months before the central government launched its transformative reform and opening-up policy. Since then, he has spent decades dedicated to cooperation in the health sector, eventually leading to the opening of China's first P4—photolithographic pattern plated probe—laboratory in 2015. The lab, which is based in Wuhan, Hubei Province, has the highest biosafety standards in the world, allowing researchers to study the most dangerous viruses, including Ebola.
"In the health field, which is the one I know best, China has been able to address major issues over the past 40 years,"Merieux said, "providing access to healthcare for everyone in an enormous country; fighting against the major threats represented by pathogens, respiratory diseases and cancer; and preventing food-borne health risks."
"China has made exceptional progress that commands respect," he said. "The country has accomplished in 40 years what other countries took a century to do, and has been able to assert （评估） itself as a leading global power." In four decades, "China has rediscovered its pride and strength," Merieux added.
"The country has particularly excelled in terms of infrastructure （基础设施）, as the creation of highways, airports and high-speed trains has completely changed the country," he said. Merieux called for greater international cooperation with China to help in the prevention and control of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis （肺结核）.
A. He wants to contribute more to the whole world. B. He also praised the overall changes seen in the nation. C. This fight must be global, since pathogens cut across borders. D. His company was established by his grandfather in Lyon in 1897. E. The project has become a symbol of Chinese-French collaboration in public health. F. His aim is to improve diagnosis and treatment of major infectious diseases in China. G. There has also been remarkable progress in scientific research, as well as academic and science. |
