The World Health Organization (WHO) chief welcomed efforts on Monday to strengthen the Geneva-based body through reform and said that it was looking forward to working closely with the administration of Joe Biden, the projected U.S. presidential winner.

"We welcome any and all efforts to strengthen this organization not for its own sake, but the sake of the people we serve," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told health ministers at the start of its resumed annual meeting.

Biden has previously said he will reverse U.S. President Donald Trump's move to withdraw from the WHO.

The Trump administration has formally notified the United Nations of its withdrawal from the WHO in early July this year.

Speaking from quarantine after being in contact with an individual with COVID-19 more than a week ago, Tedros called for unity and solidarity in fighting the pandemic which has affected more than 50 million people and claimed over 1.2 million lives.

"We cannot negotiate with COVID-19, nor close our eyes and hope it goes away. It pays no heed to political rhetoric or conspiracy theories. Our only hope is science, solutions and solidarity."

(With input from Reuters)