Zhang Haidi (left), chairwoman of the China Disabled Persons' Federation, and Zhu Ling, the publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, launch the federation’s English-language website. ZOU HONG / CHINA DAILY

An English-language website was launched on Wednesday by the China Disabled Persons' Federation, with assistance from China Daily.

The website will enhance international communication and act as a window to the world for China's 85 million disabled people, said Zhang Haidi, the federation's chairwoman, during the launch ceremony.

Zhu Ling, the publisher and editor-in-chief of China Daily, said the China Daily media group will use its expertise in communication and brand influence to build the website into one that provides the latest news and updates on the federation, as well as information about the services it provides.

"The website will allow foreign readers to learn more about disabled people in China and will promote international communication and cooperation in the sector," he added.

The site will include sections devoted to resources, initiatives and a media center.

The welfare of disabled people is a priority for China's leadership, according to the current Five-Year Plan (2016-20), which has set targets to promote their well-being.

By the end of last year, the country had 7,111 specialized facilities for the disabled. Services were provided to about 7.5 million people last year, the federation said.

Peng Liyuan, China's first lady, has made several visits to disabled children, the latest on May 15.

The federation plans to improve access for the disabled this year, in part through the promotion of barrier-free environments.

China Daily's media system, consisting of a flagship newspaper on the Chinese mainland, eight overseas editions and various digital and mobile platforms, reaches a global audience of more than 44 million.

The China Daily website has helped set up and maintain English-language websites, overseas social media accounts and mobile apps for more than 200 government entities and enterprises, including the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Ministry of Culture.

luowangshu@chinadaily.com.cn