EU concerned over trump's WHO exit, urges reconsideration
The European Commission expressed concern over President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). European Commission spokesperson Eva Hrnczirzova emphasized the need for global cooperation to strengthen the world's resilience to international health threats.
On Tuesday, Hrnczirzova reiterated the European Union's hope that this decision is still under consideration. "We are concerned about the announcement of the United States' withdrawal from WHO and trust that the US administration will thoroughly reconsider before formally withdrawing," she stated at the daily European Commission press conference.
Hrnczirzova emphasized the essential role of global cooperation in responding to international health threats. The European Commission is also examining the contributions made by WHO member states. This inquiry responds to Trump's claims that the United States 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 nearly hour-long ceremony at the White House, Trump signed over twenty documents, including an executive order on exiting WHO. The document 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 prompted widespread reactions internationally, including from WHO 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," the statement added.
