China names candidate for WHO chief position

China has nominated maternal health expert Song Li to lead the World Health Organization (WHO), a significant move that could bolster Beijing's influence over the international health body. This comes after the United States withdrew from the WHO under former President Donald Trump, who frequently criticized the organization, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Song Li, a distinguished specialist in women and child health at China's National Health Commission, is poised to replace Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the current WHO director-general. Ghebreyesus's term expires in August 2027, and he is ineligible for re-election due to the organization's two-term limit.

Song Li's background includes a 21-year career dedicated to formulating and implementing laws related to women and children's health, including prenatal diagnosis and assisted reproductive technologies. Should she be elected, Song Li would become the second Chinese national to helm the WHO, following Margaret Chan, who served from 2007 to 2017.

This nomination reflects China's commitment to multilateralism and aims to enhance the organization's role in global health and well-being. The WHO, a UN agency, plays a pivotal role in promoting universal health coverage.