China's Foreign Ministry on Thursday refuted accusations that counterfeit drugs made in China were exported to Africa and posed a threat to public health.

Spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a daily press briefing that the accusations are unfounded, noting that cooperation between the Chinese government and African countries has played an important role in improving the healthcare environment for people in Africa.

China has helped Africa build hospitals and malaria prevention and treatment centers, sent medical teams to Africa, provided Africa with medicines and medical equipment, and organized medical staff exchanges and training, according to Hua.

She stressed that China always attaches great importance to drug safety and resolutely cracks down on the manufacture and sale of counterfeit drugs. The country's management of drugs for export is consistent with international shared principles and practices, she said.

The spokeswoman called on foreign traders to procure medicines from legitimate companies through standardized channels.

She said that China is willing to work with Africa to deepen medical and health cooperation in order to benefit people there.