Speech by Dr James R. Killingsworth, Officer-in-Charge-WHO, China

World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies

25 September 2003

Beijing

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

The WHO Country Office in China greatly appreciates this opportunity to join with you and the State, Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine [SATCM] for your important meeting.

 

For longer than the past two biennial programs between WHO and the SATCM multiple efforts have been carried out to deal with validation and quality concerns in the field of traditional Chinese medicine [TCM] and medical practice. Some of this work has concerned the complete classification and official listing of plants and other compounds that have value in traditional medicine in China. Others focus on the correct practice of TCM and the proper use of traditional medicines in China. Still others concern the use of randomized clinical trials and other methods to bring greater scientific understanding of traditional medicines.

 

Many of the efforts just described have had China as their focus. Now through the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies, it is clear that efforts of this kind are being extended to have global impact. This is very important work. For a variety ofreasons, many traditional Chinese medicines are only selectively available: for health services outside of China. Further, the licensing and accreditation issues surrounding TCM practice outside of China require a great effort.

The objectives of WFCMS includes the following:

 

1. Understanding of CM societies worldwide

2. Improved academic communication internationally

3. Protection of Chinese medical sciences

4. Acceleration of TCM entry into international medical systems

5. Improved communication and collaboration within global medical science

 

If under these objectives, international standards can be established and enforced and strong research mid practice linkages can be created, then significant steps forward will be taken.

 

WHO, China wishes you great success in your deliberations and hopes to learn of the results of decisions you may reach and plans you may make in the course of your work as an international society. Thank you