When will the world have vaccinated 80% of all adults, the level presumed by scientists to produce herd immunity against COVID-19? Most people’s answer is 2023 or 2024, which suggests deep pessimism about the progress of vaccinations outside the rich world. That is also why pledges at the recent G7 summit to donate one billion doses to poor countries during this year and in 2022 look to some like generous game-changers.

A century ago, an influenza pandemic killed more people than died in World War I. Today, the COVID-19 pandemic has killed more Americans than died in all US wars since 1945. A big difference, however, is that science did not have a vaccine for the influenza virus back then, but now several companies and countries have created vaccines for COVID-19.

Kyrgyzstan, a small nation of 6.6 million, has received generous gifts of vaccine packages from the global community, notably a 170K donation from China, yet public distrust and anti-Chinese attitudes have prevented the general population from taking up the offer, revealing deeply-rooted issues Central Asian nations have with their powerful neighbor.

The Covid-19 pandemic unleashed opportunistic and nationalistic impulses on the part of countries and biomedical companies, but it also rekindled the global cooperative spirit.

Serbia’s willingness to receive a mountain of Chinese Sinopharm vaccines, as well as Russian and Western doses has made it one of the most well vaccinated countries in the world.

China should be praised, not criticized, for reaching out to poor countries in Africa with lifesaving vaccines. The United States, with all its vast resources and the best vaccines in the world, should follow suit for humanitarian reasons.

A variety of technical paths and the use of multiple treatments in the global population provide the best opportunity for quick, widespread success. Vaccine nationalism should be avoided, as it only slows progress.

The volatile state of U.S.-China relations has only hindered progress towards ending the COVID-19 pandemic. There’s little question that if the two countries were to join forces, a safer world would be within reach.

China is standing up for poor countries in the global fight against the pandemic as the West turns away. Its role is essential if humanity wants to win. Disparaging Chinese vaccines will only prolong the agony and suffering of people in need.

While the Western media criticize the country’s efforts and spread doubt about its motives, it is actually focusing on what matters — saving lives. While others race to be first, China is striving to be safe and effective.