The World Health Organisation said Tuesday it regretted US President Donald Trump’s decision to withdraw from the UN body only hours after taking office, and hoped he would “reconsider”.
On Monday, Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the United States from the World Health Organisation, which he has repeatedly criticised for its handling of the Covid-19 outbreak.
Speaking at the White House hours after his inauguration, Trump stated that the United States pays significantly more to the UN agency than China, adding, “World Health ripped us off.”
The United States, the largest donor to the Geneva-based organisation, offers critical financial assistance for WHO activities.
The United Nations’ health agency expressed disappointment at the decision on Tuesday.
“WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world’s people, including Americans,” spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told reporters in Geneva.
“We hope 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 benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe.”
The US withdrawal is projected to cause considerable restructuring of the agency, potentially disrupting global health projects.
This is the second time Trump has attempted to sever ties with the WHO.
During his first tenure, the United States issued a notice of intent to quit, claiming the organisation of being unduly influenced by China during the pandemic’s early phases.
That decision was eventually reversed by former President Joe Biden’s administration.
According to the current norms, the US will depart WHO one year after receiving formal notification.