BEIJING - The Chinese government Friday published a white paper on public health, stressing that health is a precondition for the survival of humanity and the development of human society.

The white paper, released by the State Council Information Office, introduced facts about the development of public health as an essential element of human rights in China.

The right to health is a basic human right rich in connotations. It is the guarantee for a life with dignity, according to the white paper.

Everyone is entitled to the highest standard of health, equally available and accessible, it said.

It also includes facts about ensuring people's right to health based on China's conditions; continuous improvement of health environment and conditions; public health service capability improving steadily; great improvement in the quality of medical and health services; improvement of the national medical security system; significant improvement in the health of special groups; active participation in global health governance and international medical assistance.