Côte d’Ivoire is seeking to strengthen health cooperation with China, particularly in infrastructure development, technology transfer, training and scientific research, ahead of the China-Africa Health Cooperation Conference scheduled for November 2026 in Guangzhou.

From September 3 to 5, Côte d’Ivoire’s Ambassador to China, Abou Dosso, paid a working and exchange visit to the National Medical Center for Infectious Diseases (NMCID) in Shanghai, at the invitation of the center’s director, Professor Zhang Wenhong.

During the visit, the Ivorian delegation was briefed on the center’s capabilities in clinical research, technological innovation and emergency response to public health crises. Discussions also focused on the priorities and challenges facing Côte d’Ivoire’s healthcare system, including the need for new medical infrastructure, technology transfer, skills development and stronger scientific partnerships.

Both sides expressed their intention to strengthen bilateral cooperation and develop practical partnerships aimed at addressing public health challenges in Côte d’Ivoire, drawing on the NMCID’s expertise in infectious diseases and health emergency management.

As part of the visit, Ambassador Dosso also met with executives of Shanghai Jointown Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a major Chinese pharmaceutical distribution and logistics group. Talks explored potential cooperation on securing the supply of healthcare products, transferring expertise and supporting the development of Côte d’Ivoire’s planned pharmaceutical technology hub.

The discussions come as Côte d’Ivoire seeks to strengthen its domestic healthcare and pharmaceutical capabilities and attract international expertise and investment. Cooperation with Chinese research institutions and pharmaceutical companies could help the country improve access to medical products, develop local skills and support the growth of its pharmaceutical industry.

The Shanghai meetings are expected to provide a basis for further cooperation in clinical, scientific and industrial fields, reinforcing the broader health partnership between Côte d’Ivoire and China ahead of the November China-Africa health conference.