European commission urges US to reconsider WHO withdrawal
The European Commission expressed concern about President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the USA from the World Health Organization (WHO). European Commission spokesperson Eva Hrnczirzova emphasized that global cooperation is needed for the world to be resilient to international health threats.
The European Commission expressed its concern regarding President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). On Tuesday, European Commission spokesperson Eva Hrnczirzova highlighted that the European Union hopes this issue is still under consideration.
"We are concerned about the announcement of the United States' withdrawal from WHO and trust that the US administration will consider this thoroughly before formally withdrawing," stated the spokesperson at the daily European Commission press conference.
Hrnczirzova emphasized that if the world is to be resilient to international health threats, global cooperation is needed.
The European Commission is also analyzing the issue of contributions paid by WHO member states. This was a response to Trump's allegations that the USA contributes disproportionately more to WHO operations than other countries, such as China.
WHO reacts to Trump's decision. "We accept it with regret"
During a ceremony at the White House that lasted nearly an hour, Trump signed over 20 documents, including an executive order on exiting WHO.
The document signed by Trump stated that the USA is withdrawing "due to the organization's mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic, which began in Wuhan, China, as well as its handling of other global health crises."
Trump's decision sparked widespread reactions on the international stage, including from the organization itself. "The World Health Organization accepts with regret the news of the United States of America's intention to withdraw from the Organization," reads a statement issued by WHO.
"We hope that the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the health and well-being of millions of people around the world," added the statement.
