By Cao Lin and Wang Zefeng

SHANGHAI, Oct. 23 -- The 2026 Western Pacific Naval Symposium (WPNS) Medicine Seminar was held at the Chinese PLA Naval Medical University in Shanghai from October 21 to 22, bringing together representatives from 16 WPNS member states and observer nations.

Themed on "Maritime Medical Service in the AI Era: Challenges and Solutions," the seminar brought together over 100 delegates to conduct 18 thematic discussions across four key areas: maritime disaster medicine and emergency rescue, medical support for submarine rescue, maritime medical support and casualty care, and training of maritime medical service forces.

During the event, delegates shared experiences and practices in maritime casualty care, emergency medical response to maritime disasters, and diving and hyperbaric medicine. They exchanged views on the application of emerging technologies—such as intelligent diagnosis, unmanned rescue, and telemedicine—in maritime scenarios, jointly exploring avenues for maritime medical rescue cooperation in the AI era.

The seminar aims to further deepen exchanges and cooperation on maritime medical rescue, make such efforts more efficient, standardized, and interoperable, and contribute to building a global community of health for all.