WHO says 'regrets' U.S. decision to withdraw from organization

The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed regret over U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of withdrawing the country from the organization. It hopes the U.S. government will reconsider this decision.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the WHO also said it looks forward to maintaining its partnership through constructive dialogue. It reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the root causes of diseases, strengthening health systems, and detecting, preventing, and responding to health emergencies, such as disease outbreaks.

The organization emphasized its crucial role in safeguarding global health and safety, including the well-being of the American people.

The statement highlighted that the United States has been a founding member of the WHO since 1948 and has played a vital role in shaping and governing the organization with other 193 member states, actively participating in the World Health Assembly and the WHO Executive Board.

Speaking at a daily press briefing on the same day, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasized that the WHO's role should be strengthened, not weakened and that China will continue to support the WHO in fulfilling its duties.

China will, as always, support the WHO in fulfilling its duties, deepen international public health cooperation, strengthen global health governance, and promote building a global community of health for all, Guo said.

(With input from agencies)