We are safer as one global community; Health DG Amoth says on US withdrawal from WHO

Speaking to the press, Amoth stated that the collaboration between global States has paved the way for disease prevention and building firm disease prevention systems.

He further noted that despite every nation being at free will to sever ties with the UN agency, combating diseases can only be effective under solidarity.

"Our plea is that collectively, we are safer together as a whole world while individual countries are at liberty to make any major decision that suits them. Following lessons learnt from most of these outbreaks we are only safer together as one global community."

US President Donald Trump Monday signed an executive order directing the United States to withdraw from the WHO, a body he has repeatedly criticized over its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The US is WHO's largest donor and provides substantial financial support that is vital to its operations.

The withdrawal is expected to trigger a significant restructuring of the institution and could further disrupt global health initiatives.

This marks the second time Trump has sought to sever ties with the WHO.

During his first term, the United States issued a notice of intent to withdraw, accusing the organization of being overly influenced by China during the pandemic's early stages.

Meanwhile, the UN has said that it regretted the decision as its spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told reporters in Geneva that the US should reconsider its decision

"WHO plays a crucial role in protecting the health and security of the world's people, including Americans. 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."