President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a suspension of US funding to the World Health Organisation because he said it had covered up the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak in China before it spread around the world.

Trump told a press conference he was instructing his administration to halt funding while "a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organisation's role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-governor-says-hospitalization-covid-19-infections-down-while-taking-a-dig-at-king-trump-292515" hreflang="en">New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump'</a>

According to Trump, the WHO prevented transparency over the outbreak and the United States, the UN body's biggest funder which provided $400 million last year, will now "discuss what we do with all that money that goes to the WHO."

"With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have deep concerns whether America's generosity has been put to the best use possible."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-say-trump-has-little-power-to-restart-us-economy-292451" hreflang="en">Experts say Trump has little power to restart US&nbsp;economy</a>

Trump's attack on the WHO reflects his belief that the organisation is biased toward China and colluded to prevent the United States' main economic rival from having to be open about the unfolding health disaster.

He says this cost other countries crucial time to prepare and delayed decisions to stop international travel.

"The WHO's attack on travel restrictions put political correctness above life-saving measures," he said.

"Had the WHO done its job to get medical experts into China to objectively assess the situation on the ground and to call out China's lack of transparency, the outbreak could have been contained at its source with very little death," he said.&nbsp;

"This would have saved thousands of lives and avoided worldwide economic damage. Instead, the WHO willingly took China's assurances to face value... and defended the actions of the Chinese government," he said.

Critics have pointed out that for weeks after the coronavirus epidemic began unfolding, Trump frequently praised Beijing's response and downplayed the danger it posed at home.

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a suspension of US funding to the World Health Organisation because he said it had covered up the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak in China before it spread around the world.

President Donald Trump announced Tuesday a suspension of US funding to the World Health Organisation because he said it had covered up the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak in China before it spread around the world. Trump told a press conference he was instructing his administration to halt funding while "a review is conducted to assess the World Health Organisation's role in severely mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus." Also read: New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump' According to Trump, the WHO prevented transparency over the outbreak and the United States, the UN body's biggest funder which provided $400 million last year, will now "discuss what we do with all that money that goes to the WHO." "With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have deep concerns whether America's generosity has been put to the best use possible." Also read: Experts say Trump has little power to restart US economy Trump's attack on the WHO reflects his belief that the organisation is biased toward China and colluded to prevent the United States' main economic rival from having to be open about the unfolding health disaster. He says this cost other countries crucial time to prepare and delayed decisions to stop international travel. "The WHO's attack on travel restrictions put political correctness above life-saving measures," he said. "Had the WHO done its job to get medical experts into China to objectively assess the situation on the ground and to call out China's lack of transparency, the outbreak could have been contained at its source with very little death," he said. "This would have saved thousands of lives and avoided worldwide economic damage. Instead, the WHO willingly took China's assurances to face value... and defended the actions of the Chinese government," he said. Critics have pointed out that for weeks after the coronavirus epidemic began unfolding, Trump frequently praised Beijing's response and downplayed the danger it posed at home.

Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation

US President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-announces-funding-halt-to-world-health-organisation-292533">Also read: Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation</a>

Trump said the WHO had "failed in its basic duty and it must be held accountable". He said it promoted China's "disinformation" about the virus that likely led to a wider outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-governor-says-hospitalization-covid-19-infections-down-while-taking-a-dig-at-king-trump-292515" hreflang="en">New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump'</a>

The United States is the biggest overall donor to the Geneva-based WHO, contributing more than $400 million in 2019, roughly 15% of its budget.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/experts-say-trump-has-little-power-to-restart-us-economy-292451" hreflang="en">Experts say Trump has little power to restart US&nbsp;economy</a>

CHINA'S FOREIGN MINISTRY&nbsp;

China urged the United States to fulfil its obligations to the WHO. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the coronavirus pandemic, which has infected nearly 2 million people globally, was at a critical stage and that the US decision would affect all countries.&nbsp;

GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER HEIKO MAAS

"Apportioning blame doesn't help. The virus knows no borders," Maas said on Twitter on Wednesday.

"We have to work closely together against #COVID19. One of the best investments is to strengthen the @UN, especially the under-funded @WHO, for example for developing and distributing tests and vaccines."&nbsp;

AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

Dr Patrice Harris called it "a dangerous step in the wrong direction that will not make defeating COVID-19 easier" and urged Trump to reconsider. UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES 
"Not the time" to reduce resources for WHO operations. 
"Now is the time for unity and the international community to work together in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences," he said.&nbsp;

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR HEALTH SECURITY

"The move sends the wrong message during the middle of a pandemic," said Dr Amesh Adalja, an infectious diseases expert and senior scholar.

Adalja said the WHO does make mistakes, as it did in delaying the response to the Ebola outbreak in 2013 and 2014 in West Africa. He said reforms may be needed, but that work needs to take place after the pandemic has passed.

"It's not the middle of a pandemic that you do this type of thing," he said.

Adalja said the WHO collects information about where the virus is active in every county in the world, which the United States needs to help guide decisions about when to open borders.&nbsp;

US CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION&nbsp;

Directed requests for comment to the White House.&nbsp;

&nbsp;PROTECT OUR CARE&nbsp;

"This is nothing more than a transparent attempt by President Trump to distract from his history downplaying the severity of the coronavirus crisis and his administration’s failure to prepare our nation," said Chair Leslie Dach, who served as the global Ebola coordinator for the US Department of Health and Human Services.

"To be sure, the World Health Organization is not without fault but it is beyond irresponsible to cut its funding at the height of a global pandemic. This move will undoubtedly make Americans less safe." 
Protect Our Care is a US organisation working to protect affordable coverage for all Americans.&nbsp;

VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER

"This virus doesn't need passports. In a few short months, it has travelled to all of the continents of the world except Antarctica. If there were ever an event that showed us how we need to work tougher as a global community, this is it," said Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert.&nbsp;

CHAIRMAN, US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE

"With each passing day of this worsening crisis, the president is showing us his political playbook: blame the WHO, blame China, blame his political opponents, blame his predecessors - do whatever it takes to deflect from the fact that his administration mismanaged this crisis and it’s now costing thousands of American lives," Democratic representative Eliot Engel.&nbsp;

NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER JACINDA ARDERN

"At a time like this when we need to be sharing information and we need to have advice we can rely on, the WHO has provided that. We will continue to support it and continue to make our contributions," she said.&nbsp;

AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON

Morrison said he sympathised with Trump's criticisms of the WHO, especially its support of re-opening China's "wet markets", where freshly slaughtered animals are sold and where the outbreak first appeared in the city of Wuhan late last year.

"But that said, the WHO also as an organisation does a lot of important work including here in our region in the Pacific and we work closely with them," Morrison said.

"We are not going to throw the baby out with the bathwater here, but they are also not immune from criticism and immune from doing things better."

US President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

US President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Trump announces funding halt to World Health Organisation Trump said the WHO had "failed in its basic duty and it must be held accountable". He said it promoted China's "disinformation" about the virus that likely led to a wider outbreak. Also read: New York governor says COVID-19 infections down; takes a dig at 'King Trump' The United States is the biggest overall donor to the Geneva-based WHO, contributing more than $400 million in 2019, roughly 15% of its budget. Also read: Experts say Trump has little power to restart US economy CHINA'S FOREIGN MINISTRY China urged the United States to fulfil its obligations to the WHO. Foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said the coronavirus pandemic, which has infected nearly 2 million people globally, was at a critical stage and that the US decision would affect all countries. GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER HEIKO MAAS "Apportioning blame doesn't help. The virus knows no borders," Maas said on Twitter on Wednesday. "We have to work closely together against #COVID19. One of the best investments is to strengthen the @UN, especially the under-funded @WHO, for example for developing and distributing tests and vaccines." AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT Dr Patrice Harris called it "a dangerous step in the wrong direction that will not make defeating COVID-19 easier" and urged Trump to reconsider. UN SECRETARY-GENERAL ANTONIO GUTERRES "Not the time" to reduce resources for WHO operations. "Now is the time for unity and the international community to work together in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences," he said. JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR HEALTH SECURITY "The move sends the wrong message during the middle of a pandemic," said Dr Amesh Adalja, an infectious diseases expert and senior scholar. Adalja said the WHO does make mistakes, as it did in delaying the response to the Ebola outbreak in 2013 and 2014 in West Africa. He said reforms may be needed, but that work needs to take place after the pandemic has passed. "It's not the middle of a pandemic that you do this type of thing," he said. Adalja said the WHO collects information about where the virus is active in every county in the world, which the United States needs to help guide decisions about when to open borders. US CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION Directed requests for comment to the White House. PROTECT OUR CARE "This is nothing more than a transparent attempt by President Trump to distract from his history downplaying the severity of the coronavirus crisis and his administration’s failure to prepare our nation," said Chair Leslie Dach, who served as the global Ebola coordinator for the US Department of Health and Human Services. "To be sure, the World Health Organization is not without fault but it is beyond irresponsible to cut its funding at the height of a global pandemic. This move will undoubtedly make Americans less safe." Protect Our Care is a US organisation working to protect affordable coverage for all Americans. VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER "This virus doesn't need passports. In a few short months, it has travelled to all of the continents of the world except Antarctica. If there were ever an event that showed us how we need to work tougher as a global community, this is it," said Dr William Schaffner, an infectious disease expert. CHAIRMAN, US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOREIGN AFFAIRS COMMITTEE "With each passing day of this worsening crisis, the president is showing us his political playbook: blame the WHO, blame China, blame his political opponents, blame his predecessors - do whatever it takes to deflect from the fact that his administration mismanaged this crisis and it’s now costing thousands of American lives," Democratic representative Eliot Engel. NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER JACINDA ARDERN "At a time like this when we need to be sharing information and we need to have advice we can rely on, the WHO has provided that. We will continue to support it and continue to make our contributions," she said. AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER SCOTT MORRISON Morrison said he sympathised with Trump's criticisms of the WHO, especially its support of re-opening China's "wet markets", where freshly slaughtered animals are sold and where the outbreak first appeared in the city of Wuhan late last year. "But that said, the WHO also as an organisation does a lot of important work including here in our region in the Pacific and we work closely with them," Morrison said. "We are not going to throw the baby out with the bathwater here, but they are also not immune from criticism and immune from doing things better."

Dangerous step in the wrong direction: Global reaction to Trump withdrawing WHO funding

It’s going to be a full house this weekend as Lady Gaga confirms that more artists will join her for her upcoming coronavirus relief concert ‘One World: Together at Home’.&nbsp;

Organised by Global Citizen and the World Health Organisation, the relief concert ‘One World: Together at Home’ will take place this Saturday, April 18. &nbsp;

Earlier, it was announced that Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney and Coldplay‘s Chris Martin would be taking part. Now, new sets also feature Taylor Swift, The Killers, Christine &amp; The Queens, Pharrell, Camila Cabello, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys and Sam Smith.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cooking-washing-doing-dishes-how-celebrities-have-become-more-relatable-in-times-of-self-isolation-290376" hreflang="en">Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-is-your-go-to-guide-of-everything-new-you-can-watch-this-april-290187" hreflang="en">Here is your go-to guide of everything new you can watch this April</a>

Lady Gaga is curating the concert as she announced the new names on April 14 on Twitter. She captioned a tweet: “Can’t wait for you to see what we’ve put together! Tune in!”&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Can’t wait for you to see what we’ve put together! Tune in! 💕 <a href="https://t.co/v4owoA8QdM">https://t.co/v4owoA8QdM</a>
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) <a href="https://twitter.com/ladygaga/status/1250158045658632193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, an adapted version of ‘One World’ will be broadcast on BBC One on Sunday, April 19, featuring exclusive performances from UK artists and interviews with workers on the frontline.

Also,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shah-rukh-khan-priyanka-chopra-to-join-lady-gaga-elton-john-for-whos-one-world-live-event-for-covid-19-291023">India’s biggest stars Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra </a>will come together and join hands with global superstars like Lady Gaga, Elton John, David Beckham and others for WHO’s event called ‘One World: Together At Home’.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
In another news, Lady Gaga has shared the official artwork for her upcoming new album ‘Chromatica‘. The record was due to arrive April 10 but will now arrive later in 2020 due to the current COVID-19 crisis.

It’s going to be a full house this weekend as Lady Gaga confirms that more artists will join her for her upcoming coronavirus relief concert ‘One World: Together at Home’.

It’s going to be a full house this weekend as Lady Gaga confirms that more artists will join her for her upcoming coronavirus relief concert ‘One World: Together at Home’. Organised by Global Citizen and the World Health Organisation, the relief concert ‘One World: Together at Home’ will take place this Saturday, April 18. Earlier, it was announced that Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney and Coldplay‘s Chris Martin would be taking part. Now, new sets also feature Taylor Swift, The Killers, Christine & The Queens, Pharrell, Camila Cabello, Jennifer Lopez, Alicia Keys and Sam Smith. Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation Here is your go-to guide of everything new you can watch this April Lady Gaga is curating the concert as she announced the new names on April 14 on Twitter. She captioned a tweet: “Can’t wait for you to see what we’ve put together! Tune in!” Can’t wait for you to see what we’ve put together! Tune in! 💕 https://t.co/v4owoA8QdM — Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) April 14, 2020 × Meanwhile, an adapted version of ‘One World’ will be broadcast on BBC One on Sunday, April 19, featuring exclusive performances from UK artists and interviews with workers on the frontline. Also, India’s biggest stars Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra will come together and join hands with global superstars like Lady Gaga, Elton John, David Beckham and others for WHO’s event called ‘One World: Together At Home’. In another news, Lady Gaga has shared the official artwork for her upcoming new album ‘Chromatica‘. The record was due to arrive April 10 but will now arrive later in 2020 due to the current COVID-19 crisis.

Taylor Swift, JLo, Pharrell and others to join Lady Gaga's coronavirus relief concert

The WHO, a United Nations-affiliated organization, is chronically underfunded. The agency has spent hundreds of millions of dollars fighting the coronavirus that has spread across the globe, and it is one of the only agencies still fighting an outbreak of the Ebola virus in Congo.

WHO to announce norms for lifting lockdown

At a time when the global death toll from coronavirus jumped to 114,539, World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday that vaccine is needed to fully halt the transmission of the virus.&nbsp;

"We know that COVID-19 spreads fast, and we know that it is deadly, 10 times more deadly than the 2009 flu pandemic," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a virtual briefing from Geneva.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-coronavirus-death-toll-falls-to-517-in-24-hours-292251">Spain's coronavirus death toll falls to 517 in 24 hours</a>

The director-general said that globalisation meant that COVID-19 could re-emerge yet again, implying that "ultimately, the development and delivery of a safe and effective vaccine will be needed to fully interrupt transmission."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-germany-moving-towards-gradual-reopening-as-virus-cases-drops-292304">Coronavirus: Germany moving towards gradual reopening as virus cases drops</a>

Meanwhile, at least 114,539 people have died so far from coronavirus in 193 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally. More than 1,853,300 have tested positive for coronavirus globally, as per the data.&nbsp;

With 22,109 deaths, the United States continues to suffer the most from coronavirus. On Tuesday, the coronavirus death toll on New York also surpassed 10,000 with the governor saying that the "worst is over" in the state.&nbsp;

The second-worst hit country Italy reported 566 new deaths on Monday, which took its death toll over 20,000. However, the number of critically ill patients in the country dropped for the tenth consecutive day due to a slow down in the rate of infections.&nbsp;

At a time when the global death toll from coronavirus jumped to 114,539, World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday that vaccine is needed to fully halt the transmission of the virus.

At a time when the global death toll from coronavirus jumped to 114,539, World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday that vaccine is needed to fully halt the transmission of the virus. "We know that COVID-19 spreads fast, and we know that it is deadly, 10 times more deadly than the 2009 flu pandemic," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in a virtual briefing from Geneva. Also read | Spain's coronavirus death toll falls to 517 in 24 hours The director-general said that globalisation meant that COVID-19 could re-emerge yet again, implying that "ultimately, the development and delivery of a safe and effective vaccine will be needed to fully interrupt transmission." Also read | Coronavirus: Germany moving towards gradual reopening as virus cases drops Meanwhile, at least 114,539 people have died so far from coronavirus in 193 countries and territories, according to an AFP tally. More than 1,853,300 have tested positive for coronavirus globally, as per the data. With 22,109 deaths, the United States continues to suffer the most from coronavirus. On Tuesday, the coronavirus death toll on New York also surpassed 10,000 with the governor saying that the "worst is over" in the state. The second-worst hit country Italy reported 566 new deaths on Monday, which took its death toll over 20,000. However, the number of critically ill patients in the country dropped for the tenth consecutive day due to a slow down in the rate of infections.

Coronavirus is 10 times deadlier than swine flu: WHO

When the world is struggling to contain the novel coronavirus pandemic, a lot of questions are being raised on the nexus between China and the World Health Organization (WHO). On Thursday, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus accused Taiwan of racism.&nbsp;

In the latest episode, China accused Taiwan of "venomous" attacks against WHO. For the unversed, Taiwan is an island that China considers its own, even though, the island declaring itself as an independent nation with a democratically elected government.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/millions-need-to-be-tested-new-york-reports-777-deaths-in-24-hours-291862">'Millions need to be tested': New York reports 777 deaths in 24 hours</a>

However, today Taiwan's Ministry of Justice has unearthed an online campaign done in the name of Taiwanese to apologize to the director-general.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-covid-19-death-toll-rises-to-record-980-fatalities-8958-people-dead-291859">UK COVID-19 death toll rises to record 980 fatalities; 8,958 people dead</a>

The investigations revealed that Chinese internet users are posting online as Taiwanese to apologise to Dr. Ghebreyesus on behalf of Taiwan's government. A number of such messages have started to appear on the internet. However, the users who posted these messages were Chinese.&nbsp;

"I feel extremely ashamed that we attacked Tedros in such a malicious way... I apologise on behalf of the Taiwanese and beg for his forgiveness," one of the messages said.&nbsp;

Now, these posts are making a dent to Taiwan's reputation, a small island that has dealt coronavirus well with only 382 cases and six deaths and is helping other nations too.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

When the world is struggling to contain the novel coronavirus pandemic, a lot of questions are being raised on the nexus between China and the World Health Organization (WHO).

When the world is struggling to contain the novel coronavirus pandemic, a lot of questions are being raised on the nexus between China and the World Health Organization (WHO). On Thursday, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus accused Taiwan of racism. In the latest episode, China accused Taiwan of "venomous" attacks against WHO. For the unversed, Taiwan is an island that China considers its own, even though, the island declaring itself as an independent nation with a democratically elected government. Also read | 'Millions need to be tested': New York reports 777 deaths in 24 hours However, today Taiwan's Ministry of Justice has unearthed an online campaign done in the name of Taiwanese to apologize to the director-general. Also read | UK COVID-19 death toll rises to record 980 fatalities; 8,958 people dead The investigations revealed that Chinese internet users are posting online as Taiwanese to apologise to Dr. Ghebreyesus on behalf of Taiwan's government. A number of such messages have started to appear on the internet. However, the users who posted these messages were Chinese. "I feel extremely ashamed that we attacked Tedros in such a malicious way... I apologise on behalf of the Taiwanese and beg for his forgiveness," one of the messages said. Now, these posts are making a dent to Taiwan's reputation, a small island that has dealt coronavirus well with only 382 cases and six deaths and is helping other nations too.

Day after WHO's accusations of racism, Taiwan responds

China has accused Taiwan of 'venomous' attacks against the W.H.O chief. But, the Taiwanese govt has unearthed a fake apology plot by China's propaganda machinery. Allegedly, Chinese twitter accounts are issuing apologies to Dr. Tedros Adhanom in Taiwan's name. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Taiwan unearths China's 'Fake apology' plot |  Coronavirus outbreak

The World Health Organisation had endorsed traditional Chinese remedies in a 2019 report. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how China was able to win the endorsement, despite strong protests from animal rights activists.

Gravitas: Is the WHO serving China's interests?

Donald Trump is blaming the WHO for the evolving crisis in the United States. While the health body needs to be held accountable, is the U.S. President trying to evade responsibility for his faults? WION's Palki Sharma brings you the story.

Gravitas: Trump takes on the WHO | Wuhan Coronavirus

US President Donald Trump has fired a fresh salvo at the World Health Organization, accusing its chief of siding with China and "politicising" the coronavirus pandemic while repeating his threat to freeze the UN agency's funding.

Trump's allegation comes a day after the US President threatened to put a "very powerful" hold on US' funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) and criticised it for having "missed the call" in its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-chief-defends-who-after-trump-coronavirus-jibe-291459" hreflang="en">UN chief defends WHO after Trump coronavirus jibe</a>

Trump slammed the Geneva-based global health agency for its early guidance aimed at countering the international spread of the coronavirus.

The president's fresh allegation comes after WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned against politicisation of COVID-19 and said that such a move will only result in "many more body bags".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-4-lakh-infected-with-coronavirus-in-us-report-291455" hreflang="en">Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report</a>

"If you want to be exploited and if you want to have many more body bags, then you [politicize the virus]. If you don't want many more body bags, then you refrain from politicizing it," Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday.

Hours later at the White House conference, Trump agreed that the COVID-19 should not be politicised, but alleged that the WHO chief was doing exactly that and was siding with China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-health-organisation-urges-coronavirus-unity-after-trump-attack-291437" hreflang="en">World Health Organisation urges coronavirus unity after Trump attack</a>

"When he (Ghebreyesus) says politicizing, he's politicizing. That shouldn't be. We spend USD 450 million last year, hundreds of millions in previous years. And they got to do better than that. They got to do better. When you talk about politics, I can't believe he's talking about politics look at the relationship they have to China," Trump said in response to a question.

"China spends USD 42 million. We spend USD 450 million and everything seems to be China's way. That's not right. It's not fair to us. And honestly, it's not fair to the world," he said.

The United States is reevaluating its funding with respect to the WHO, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters at the White House.

"This is very consistent with what President Trump said since the beginning of his campaign. Organizations have to work," he added.

"They have to deliver the outcomes for which they were intended and we need to make sure that only the WHO but every international organization that we take taxpayer money and give it to them for the benefit of America we need to make sure it is delivering on this taxpayer dollars. The WHO is no different in that respect," the top American diplomat said.

Trump asserted that the WHO had to get its priority right. "I think they have to get their priorities right and their priorities are that everybody has to be treated properly, every country. And it doesn't seem that way,&nbsp;he said.

"It doesn't seem that way so we are going to do study investigation and we are going to make a determination as to what we are doing. In the meantime, we are holding back, we are going very unfair to the United States USD 452 million compared to USD 42 million that is to the World Health Organization. That is not good, that is not good, not fair," he said.

"Not fair at all and other countries as you know also gave very substantially less than the United States and the world WHO got it wrong. I mean they got it very wrong, in many ways they were wrong. They also minimised the threat very strongly and not good," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump has fired a fresh salvo at the World Health Organization, accusing its chief of siding with China and "politicising" the coronavirus pandemic while repeating his threat to freeze the UN agency's funding.

US President Donald Trump has fired a fresh salvo at the World Health Organization, accusing its chief of siding with China and "politicising" the coronavirus pandemic while repeating his threat to freeze the UN agency's funding. Trump's allegation comes a day after the US President threatened to put a "very powerful" hold on US' funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) and criticised it for having "missed the call" in its response to the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: UN chief defends WHO after Trump coronavirus jibe Trump slammed the Geneva-based global health agency for its early guidance aimed at countering the international spread of the coronavirus. The president's fresh allegation comes after WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cautioned against politicisation of COVID-19 and said that such a move will only result in "many more body bags". Also read: Over 4 lakh infected with coronavirus in US: Report "If you want to be exploited and if you want to have many more body bags, then you [politicize the virus]. If you don't want many more body bags, then you refrain from politicizing it," Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday. Hours later at the White House conference, Trump agreed that the COVID-19 should not be politicised, but alleged that the WHO chief was doing exactly that and was siding with China. Also read: World Health Organisation urges coronavirus unity after Trump attack "When he (Ghebreyesus) says politicizing, he's politicizing. That shouldn't be. We spend USD 450 million last year, hundreds of millions in previous years. And they got to do better than that. They got to do better. When you talk about politics, I can't believe he's talking about politics look at the relationship they have to China," Trump said in response to a question. "China spends USD 42 million. We spend USD 450 million and everything seems to be China's way. That's not right. It's not fair to us. And honestly, it's not fair to the world," he said. The United States is reevaluating its funding with respect to the WHO, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters at the White House. "This is very consistent with what President Trump said since the beginning of his campaign. Organizations have to work," he added. "They have to deliver the outcomes for which they were intended and we need to make sure that only the WHO but every international organization that we take taxpayer money and give it to them for the benefit of America we need to make sure it is delivering on this taxpayer dollars. The WHO is no different in that respect," the top American diplomat said. Trump asserted that the WHO had to get its priority right. "I think they have to get their priorities right and their priorities are that everybody has to be treated properly, every country. And it doesn't seem that way, he said. "It doesn't seem that way so we are going to do study investigation and we are going to make a determination as to what we are doing. In the meantime, we are holding back, we are going very unfair to the United States USD 452 million compared to USD 42 million that is to the World Health Organization. That is not good, that is not good, not fair," he said. "Not fair at all and other countries as you know also gave very substantially less than the United States and the world WHO got it wrong. I mean they got it very wrong, in many ways they were wrong. They also minimised the threat very strongly and not good," Trump said.

WHO chief 'politicising' COVID-19 pandemic, siding with China: Trump

he United Nations Security Council will hold a closed session on Thursday to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic, the first time the powerful UN organ is holding a meeting on coronavirus that has killed more than 74,000 people

UNSC to discuss Coronavirus pandemic

The US President Donald Trump threatened on Tuesday (April 7) to cut US funding to the World Health Organization (WHO), accusing it of bias toward China, where the authorities lifted a two-and-a-half month travel ban on Wuhan, the city that spawned the global coronavirus pandemic.

Donald Trump accuses WHO of bias toward China, threatens to halt funding

If anything, the coronavirus pandemic has brought people closer what with live music sessions to hefty donations for the welfare of people and so much more.

Now, India’s biggest stars Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra will come together and join hands with global superstars like Lady Gaga, Elton John, David Beckham and others for WHO’s event called ‘One World: Together At Home’.&nbsp;

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On April 18th <a href="https://twitter.com/GlblCtzn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@glblctzn</a> will host One World: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherAtHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherAtHome</a>, the first of its kind global broadcast event in benefit of the <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> Covid-19 Solidarity Fund. We’ll be honoring healthcare and front line essential communities. Visit <a href="https://t.co/P7892bxw3u">https://t.co/P7892bxw3u</a> to learn more. <a href="https://t.co/NJ6NvGItZn">pic.twitter.com/NJ6NvGItZn</a>
— PRIYANKA (@priyankachopra) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankachopra/status/1247298059526012928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherAtHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherAtHome</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GlblCtzn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GlblCtzn</a> <a href="https://t.co/9nxv0J96JC">https://t.co/9nxv0J96JC</a> <a href="https://t.co/3mXi6d5tbF">pic.twitter.com/3mXi6d5tbF</a>
— Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) <a href="https://twitter.com/ladygaga/status/1247360887637368832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The event will be broadcast live on April 18.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/ladygaga?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LadyGaga</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/eltonofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Eltonofficial</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/lizzo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Lizzo</a>, and more are standing in solidarity with us and the <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WHO</a> to support global response efforts to the coronavirus. Join us on April 18 for One World: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherAtHome?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherAtHome</a> and take action now 👉<a href="https://t.co/QMSMOngS2h">https://t.co/QMSMOngS2h</a> <a href="https://t.co/dpPYhmIEF1">pic.twitter.com/dpPYhmIEF1</a>
— Global Citizen (@GlblCtzn) <a href="https://twitter.com/GlblCtzn/status/1247195902663680000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The event is being organised by the WHO for collection of funds that would be used to tackle the virus.&nbsp;

Check out:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-godfather-to-forrest-gump-heres-your-hollywood-nostalgia-binge-guide-290700" hreflang="en">'The Godfather' to 'Forrest Gump': Here's your Hollywood nostalgia binge guide</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/cooking-washing-doing-dishes-how-celebrities-have-become-more-relatable-in-times-of-self-isolation-290376" hreflang="en">Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/here-is-your-go-to-guide-of-everything-new-you-can-watch-this-april-290187" hreflang="en">Here is your go-to guide of everything new you can watch this April</a>

Stars including Idris Elba, John Legend and others will be joining the event.&nbsp;

The WHO event will be hosted by popular talk show hosts like Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel.&nbsp;

If anything, the coronavirus pandemic has brought people closer what with live music sessions to hefty donations for the welfare of people and so much more. Now, India’s biggest stars Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra will come together and join hands with global superstars like Lady Gaga, Elton John, David Beckham and others for WHO’s event called ‘One World: Together At Home’.

If anything, the coronavirus pandemic has brought people closer what with live music sessions to hefty donations for the welfare of people and so much more. Now, India’s biggest stars Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra will come together and join hands with global superstars like Lady Gaga, Elton John, David Beckham and others for WHO’s event called ‘One World: Together At Home’. On April 18th @glblctzn will host One World: #TogetherAtHome, the first of its kind global broadcast event in benefit of the @WHO Covid-19 Solidarity Fund. We’ll be honoring healthcare and front line essential communities. Visit https://t.co/P7892bxw3u to learn more. pic.twitter.com/NJ6NvGItZn — PRIYANKA (@priyankachopra) April 6, 2020 × #TogetherAtHome @WHO @GlblCtzn https://t.co/9nxv0J96JC pic.twitter.com/3mXi6d5tbF — Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) April 7, 2020 × The event will be broadcast live on April 18. .@LadyGaga, @Eltonofficial, @Lizzo, and more are standing in solidarity with us and the @WHO to support global response efforts to the coronavirus. Join us on April 18 for One World: #TogetherAtHome and take action now 👉https://t.co/QMSMOngS2h pic.twitter.com/dpPYhmIEF1 — Global Citizen (@GlblCtzn) April 6, 2020 × The event is being organised by the WHO for collection of funds that would be used to tackle the virus. Check out: 'The Godfather' to 'Forrest Gump': Here's your Hollywood nostalgia binge guide Cooking, washing, doing dishes: How celebrities have become more relatable in times of self-isolation Here is your go-to guide of everything new you can watch this April Stars including Idris Elba, John Legend and others will be joining the event. The WHO event will be hosted by popular talk show hosts like Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel.

Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra to join Lady Gaga, Elton John for WHO's 'One World' live event for COVID-19

April 7 in history: WHO established, Mars spacecraft launched, and more

Both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and China have been in the limelight since the onset of COVID-19. The growing camaraderie between both suggests towards China's "charm-offensive" approach of expediting its objectives in the global health body. This holds great significance in the pretext of China's mounting financial clout in the WHO, especially as the latter effusively praises China for its efforts to contain the virus. Moreover, it is also on the issue of Taiwan, that Beijing's political authority in the WHO is most apparent.&nbsp;

However, as COVID-19 becomes a pandemic and a threat to global economic growth, China witnesses its foreign policy and governance model being tested at the inception of criticisms. This entails to its not-so-immediate response to the virus outbreak; relations with the WHO; and Taiwan's membership blockade in the global health body. &nbsp;

In this context, several debates have been arising, which situate around China's accountability as a major global power and WHO's capability towards global health governance. Deliberations have been persisting over China's growing political weight in this global health body in the backdrop of the increasing hostility between China and Taiwan, and the WHO's acknowledgement of 'One China' Policy. Such has corroborated to the exclusion of Taiwan from the WHO, and the former's limited access to timely information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these debates need to be viewed in light of how China plans to achieve its goal of national unification with Taiwan to sustain its political leadership; how Beijing plans to reshape the global order; and how it sustains its global governance model post-COVID-19. &nbsp;

China's approach to global governance under Xi Jinping has strived to realise its economic, strategic and political goals, enabling the country to achieve greater geopolitical gravity. However, it has also strengthened the wall around China to control the flow of information, ideas and capital. These characteristics have brought Beijing's foreign policy into the spotlight; particularly with the suppression of Dr. Li Wenliang's early warnings. A considerable amount of flak has also been drawn by the WHO from the international community, especially as its Director General (DG), Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised China for "setting a new standard for outbreak control". However, such has been contrary to Beijing's containment of the virus which has increasingly been criticised by the global community for lacking transparency, legitimacy and liberty. &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-spread-china-must-allow-global-probe-to-ascertain-origin-of-covid-19-291113">Also Read: China must allow global probe to ascertain origin of COVID-19</a> 
 
In retrospect, one wonders what has prompted WHO to appreciate China so much when Beijing failed to curb the pandemic to spill outside China, and when the regime under Xi Jinping remained unsuccessful in realising the global consequences arriving from this virus. It becomes evident that the influence arriving from China's 'charm offensive' tactics over the WHO's decision-making process is the reason why the global health body's conduct towards China has been soft. WHO's departure on its perception of China is also visible if one compares how it criticised China during the SARS epidemic in 2002-03. Clearly, the WHO-China connection needs greater international scrutiny. &nbsp;

In fact, China, with its power clout as a UN Security Council P-5 member, has been blocking Taiwan's WHO membership, except for a brief period from 2009-16, when the latter participated in the global health body as a non-voting observer. This comes at the backdrop of Taiwan alerting the WHO in late December about the virus' inter-human transmission potential while accusing the organization of its failure to communicate the early warnings. Taiwan's exclusion from WHO, due to China's claim on it being a part of its territory, indicated Beijing's mounting strategic clout in the multilateral arena. However, Taiwan's blockade also resulted in a relatively slowed global response towards the pandemic, which has now spurred as a health and economic crisis. If anything, the above arguments reiterate China's increasing levels of participation and engagement in multilateral institutions such as WHO, as a means of achieving its national objectives. &nbsp;

One also should not overlook the rising Chinese financial clout over the WHO. Under Xi Jinping, an increase has been noticed in the Chinese contribution to WHO, which has risen by 52 per cent since 2014 to approximately $ 86 million, pointing to the obvious. Even though China's contribution to WHO dwarfs in comparison to the US', having provided $893 million to the organisation in 2018-19, the former's rising influence on WHO cannot be discounted. In fact, China's partnership with WHO through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) since 2017 to strengthen health security, remains an example of its aim to redistribute power in the existing multilateral institutions and acts as a catalyst for its desire to reshape the global order. Moreover, China's economic and strategic clout has proven beneficial for it emerge as a major player in the global health stage through global policy initiatives and investments in Asia and Africa. However, the COVID-19 episode has severely challenged China's leadership role in the international community, particularly in terms of global health; as Beijing struggles to sustain its responsibility and accountability. &nbsp;

Thus, in light of the diminishing faith in China's global governance model and the increasing criticisms towards China's handling of the COVID-19, challenges to China's leadership under Xi seem inevitable. Further, while the majority of the global community acknowledges China's claims over Taiwan, the exclusion of the latter from WHO amidst the widespread criticisms buttresses the argument mentioned above. China's national position in the international affairs, hence, seems to be witnessing a conundrum- of realising its national goals and interests amidst prevalent criticisms towards its governance; and of sustaining and strengthening its economy amidst an impending global economic crisis.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and China have been in the limelight since the onset of COVID-19. The growing camaraderie between both suggests towards China's "charm-offensive" approach of expediting its objectives in the global health body.

Both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and China have been in the limelight since the onset of COVID-19. The growing camaraderie between both suggests towards China's "charm-offensive" approach of expediting its objectives in the global health body. This holds great significance in the pretext of China's mounting financial clout in the WHO, especially as the latter effusively praises China for its efforts to contain the virus. Moreover, it is also on the issue of Taiwan, that Beijing's political authority in the WHO is most apparent. However, as COVID-19 becomes a pandemic and a threat to global economic growth, China witnesses its foreign policy and governance model being tested at the inception of criticisms. This entails to its not-so-immediate response to the virus outbreak; relations with the WHO; and Taiwan's membership blockade in the global health body.  In this context, several debates have been arising, which situate around China's accountability as a major global power and WHO's capability towards global health governance. Deliberations have been persisting over China's growing political weight in this global health body in the backdrop of the increasing hostility between China and Taiwan, and the WHO's acknowledgement of 'One China' Policy. Such has corroborated to the exclusion of Taiwan from the WHO, and the former's limited access to timely information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. However, these debates need to be viewed in light of how China plans to achieve its goal of national unification with Taiwan to sustain its political leadership; how Beijing plans to reshape the global order; and how it sustains its global governance model post-COVID-19.  China's approach to global governance under Xi Jinping has strived to realise its economic, strategic and political goals, enabling the country to achieve greater geopolitical gravity. However, it has also strengthened the wall around China to control the flow of information, ideas and capital. These characteristics have brought Beijing's foreign policy into the spotlight; particularly with the suppression of Dr. Li Wenliang's early warnings. A considerable amount of flak has also been drawn by the WHO from the international community, especially as its Director General (DG), Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised China for "setting a new standard for outbreak control". However, such has been contrary to Beijing's containment of the virus which has increasingly been criticised by the global community for lacking transparency, legitimacy and liberty.  Also Read: China must allow global probe to ascertain origin of COVID-19 In retrospect, one wonders what has prompted WHO to appreciate China so much when Beijing failed to curb the pandemic to spill outside China, and when the regime under Xi Jinping remained unsuccessful in realising the global consequences arriving from this virus. It becomes evident that the influence arriving from China's 'charm offensive' tactics over the WHO's decision-making process is the reason why the global health body's conduct towards China has been soft. WHO's departure on its perception of China is also visible if one compares how it criticised China during the SARS epidemic in 2002-03. Clearly, the WHO-China connection needs greater international scrutiny.  In fact, China, with its power clout as a UN Security Council P-5 member, has been blocking Taiwan's WHO membership, except for a brief period from 2009-16, when the latter participated in the global health body as a non-voting observer. This comes at the backdrop of Taiwan alerting the WHO in late December about the virus' inter-human transmission potential while accusing the organization of its failure to communicate the early warnings. Taiwan's exclusion from WHO, due to China's claim on it being a part of its territory, indicated Beijing's mounting strategic clout in the multilateral arena. However, Taiwan's blockade also resulted in a relatively slowed global response towards the pandemic, which has now spurred as a health and economic crisis. If anything, the above arguments reiterate China's increasing levels of participation and engagement in multilateral institutions such as WHO, as a means of achieving its national objectives.  One also should not overlook the rising Chinese financial clout over the WHO. Under Xi Jinping, an increase has been noticed in the Chinese contribution to WHO, which has risen by 52 per cent since 2014 to approximately $ 86 million, pointing to the obvious. Even though China's contribution to WHO dwarfs in comparison to the US', having provided $893 million to the organisation in 2018-19, the former's rising influence on WHO cannot be discounted. In fact, China's partnership with WHO through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) since 2017 to strengthen health security, remains an example of its aim to redistribute power in the existing multilateral institutions and acts as a catalyst for its desire to reshape the global order. Moreover, China's economic and strategic clout has proven beneficial for it emerge as a major player in the global health stage through global policy initiatives and investments in Asia and Africa. However, the COVID-19 episode has severely challenged China's leadership role in the international community, particularly in terms of global health; as Beijing struggles to sustain its responsibility and accountability.  Thus, in light of the diminishing faith in China's global governance model and the increasing criticisms towards China's handling of the COVID-19, challenges to China's leadership under Xi seem inevitable. Further, while the majority of the global community acknowledges China's claims over Taiwan, the exclusion of the latter from WHO amidst the widespread criticisms buttresses the argument mentioned above. China's national position in the international affairs, hence, seems to be witnessing a conundrum- of realising its national goals and interests amidst prevalent criticisms towards its governance; and of sustaining and strengthening its economy amidst an impending global economic crisis. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

As coronavirus becomes a global threat, WHO-China ties need greater international scrutiny

The World Health Organization (WHO) praised South Korea for its response to the coronavirus outbreak as the country on Monday reported fewer than 50 positive cases for the first time since the outbreak escalated in mid-February.

There were 47 new infections as of midnight on Sunday compared with 81 reported a day earlier, taking the total cases to 10,284, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-nears-600-in-switzerland-290883">Coronavirus: Death toll nears 600 in Switzerland</a>

South Korea also confirmed eight new deaths and the death toll now stands at 191.&nbsp;

As many as 6,598 people have recovered from COVID-19 in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-lowest-death-toll-due-to-covid-19-for-fourth-consecutive-day-290886">Spain records lowest death toll due to COVID-19 for fourth consecutive day</a>

WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised President Moon Jae-in's leadership to contain the spread of the virus in a 25-minute phone call, Moon's presidential Blue House said.&nbsp;

Moon said in the phone call that South Korea was "willing to actively support other countries with prevention skills and supplies as the circumstances permit".&nbsp;

In February, South Korea faced the worst coronavirus outbreak after mainland China when the virus's reach was limited to a few countries.

However, the country focussed on mass testing and contact tracing and then provided them good treatment, which resulted in a lower death rate.&nbsp;

After witnessing the peak of daily infection tally with 909 cases on February 29, in the last one month, South Korea reported 100 or fewer daily cases.&nbsp;

The Blue House also said that the WHO director-general urged South Korea to provide test kits and other medical supplies to sub-Saharan countries.&nbsp;

Despite South Korea's impressive effort, officials have still urged for greater vigilance, warning that a large outbreak could strike back.&nbsp;

"We are taking great caution against any optimistic expectations with this one-off figure," Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said in a regular briefing.

Earlier, the government extended its intensive social distancing programme for two more weeks on Saturday, citing continuous small clusters of infections.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The World Health Organization (WHO) praised South Korea for its response to the coronavirus outbreak as the country on Monday reported fewer than 50 positive cases for the first time since the outbreak escalated in mid-February.

The World Health Organization (WHO) praised South Korea for its response to the coronavirus outbreak as the country on Monday reported fewer than 50 positive cases for the first time since the outbreak escalated in mid-February. There were 47 new infections as of midnight on Sunday compared with 81 reported a day earlier, taking the total cases to 10,284, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) said. Also read | Coronavirus: Death toll nears 600 in Switzerland South Korea also confirmed eight new deaths and the death toll now stands at 191. As many as 6,598 people have recovered from COVID-19 in the country. Also read | Spain records lowest death toll due to COVID-19 for fourth consecutive day WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus praised President Moon Jae-in's leadership to contain the spread of the virus in a 25-minute phone call, Moon's presidential Blue House said. Moon said in the phone call that South Korea was "willing to actively support other countries with prevention skills and supplies as the circumstances permit". In February, South Korea faced the worst coronavirus outbreak after mainland China when the virus's reach was limited to a few countries. However, the country focussed on mass testing and contact tracing and then provided them good treatment, which resulted in a lower death rate. After witnessing the peak of daily infection tally with 909 cases on February 29, in the last one month, South Korea reported 100 or fewer daily cases. The Blue House also said that the WHO director-general urged South Korea to provide test kits and other medical supplies to sub-Saharan countries. Despite South Korea's impressive effort, officials have still urged for greater vigilance, warning that a large outbreak could strike back. "We are taking great caution against any optimistic expectations with this one-off figure," Vice Health Minister Kim Gang-lip said in a regular briefing. Earlier, the government extended its intensive social distancing programme for two more weeks on Saturday, citing continuous small clusters of infections. (With inputs from Reuters)

South Korea reports fewer than 50 coronavirus cases; WHO lauds nation's response

WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is leading the coronavirus fight. China has been criticised for its response to the outbreak. But Dr Tedros has ignored China's criminal negligence. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the WHO Chief is turning a blind eye to China's actions.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: Why is the WHO Director General toeing China's line?

WHO praised India's $22.6 billion economic stimulus plan - announced after a 21-day lockdown imposed last week - to provide free food rations for 800 million disadvantaged people, cash transfers to 204 million poor women and free cooking gas for 80 million households for the next 3 months.

WHO praises India's efforts in tackling coronavirus pandemic

The World Health Organization (WHO) has come under a lot of scrutinies and not without reason. The UN-affiliated body has been accused of willfully parroting Chinese propaganda.

It has been accused by US Senators of downplaying the severity of the highly-infectious coronavirus outbreak in initial months.&nbsp;

And now claims against the WHO’s frivolous travel expenses are beginning to crop up again after they were first reported in 2017.&nbsp;

The United Nations health agency has routinely spent about $200 million a year on travel expenses alone.&nbsp;

This is far more than what it doles out in public health including aids, tuberculosis and malaria combined. And it’s not just journalists obsessing over the WHO’s balance sheet. According to reports even the rest of its 7,000 staffers say it sends a wrong message to the world.

Especially when the cash-strapped health agency routinely pleads for more money to fund its responses to health crises worldwide.&nbsp;

According to its statistics the WHO spent about $71 million on aids and hepatitis. It devoted $61 million to malaria. To slow the spread of tuberculosis, WHO invested $59 million.&nbsp;

Still, some health programs do get exceptional funding — the agency spends about $450 million trying to wipe out polio every year and a similar amount was used to eradicate ebola.

Comparing these figures with what the WHO has spent on travel which is largely drawn from taxpayer-funded contributions of its 194 member countries shows a startling contrast 40% of WHO budget over 4 years was spent on travel alone.&nbsp;

The numbers on your screen are startling, during 4 year period from 2013-17. Over $800 million from WHO's approximate budget of $2 billion was spent on travel. The truth is that the WHO has indeed struggled to get its travel costs under control.

Senior officials tasked with handling finance have lashed out against director-general officers like Dr Margaret Chan who helmed the health agency in 2013.

Earlier that year, a memorandum was sent to Chan and other top leaders urging her and her team to rein in travel costs.&nbsp;

Chan’s team was so insolent that even Nick Jeffreys, WHO's director of finance had said ‘we don't trust people to do the right thing when it comes to travel’.

UN Staffers continued to break new rules that were introduced to try to curb travel spending booking perks like business class aeroplane tickets and rooms in five-star hotels with few consequences.

According to a press statement, the WHO meanwhile says that nearly 60 per cent of its travel costs were spent on sending outside experts to countries.

And for representatives from member countries to attend their meetings. During the Ebola disaster in West Africa, for example, the WHOs travel costs spiked to $234 million.

Just to remind our readers that 459 million dollars are what the WHO spent on fighting ebola. That is squarely 50% of the WHO’s ebola budget was used on travel expenses.&nbsp;

While the three, worst-affected countries in West Africa bore the brunt of the outbreak and also paid for lavish arrangements demanded by WHO officials.Although under new leadership and having to face one of the most lethal and infectious pandemics in modern history.&nbsp;

The WHO's track record when it comes to expansive travel costs remains a blight on its already questionable track record.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has come under a lot of scrutinies and not without reason. The UN-affiliated body has been accused of willfully parroting Chinese propaganda.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has come under a lot of scrutinies and not without reason. The UN-affiliated body has been accused of willfully parroting Chinese propaganda. It has been accused by US Senators of downplaying the severity of the highly-infectious coronavirus outbreak in initial months. And now claims against the WHO’s frivolous travel expenses are beginning to crop up again after they were first reported in 2017. The United Nations health agency has routinely spent about $200 million a year on travel expenses alone. This is far more than what it doles out in public health including aids, tuberculosis and malaria combined. And it’s not just journalists obsessing over the WHO’s balance sheet. According to reports even the rest of its 7,000 staffers say it sends a wrong message to the world. Especially when the cash-strapped health agency routinely pleads for more money to fund its responses to health crises worldwide. According to its statistics the WHO spent about $71 million on aids and hepatitis. It devoted $61 million to malaria. To slow the spread of tuberculosis, WHO invested $59 million. Still, some health programs do get exceptional funding — the agency spends about $450 million trying to wipe out polio every year and a similar amount was used to eradicate ebola. Comparing these figures with what the WHO has spent on travel which is largely drawn from taxpayer-funded contributions of its 194 member countries shows a startling contrast 40% of WHO budget over 4 years was spent on travel alone. The numbers on your screen are startling, during 4 year period from 2013-17. Over $800 million from WHO's approximate budget of $2 billion was spent on travel. The truth is that the WHO has indeed struggled to get its travel costs under control. Senior officials tasked with handling finance have lashed out against director-general officers like Dr Margaret Chan who helmed the health agency in 2013. Earlier that year, a memorandum was sent to Chan and other top leaders urging her and her team to rein in travel costs. Chan’s team was so insolent that even Nick Jeffreys, WHO's director of finance had said ‘we don't trust people to do the right thing when it comes to travel’. UN Staffers continued to break new rules that were introduced to try to curb travel spending booking perks like business class aeroplane tickets and rooms in five-star hotels with few consequences. According to a press statement, the WHO meanwhile says that nearly 60 per cent of its travel costs were spent on sending outside experts to countries. And for representatives from member countries to attend their meetings. During the Ebola disaster in West Africa, for example, the WHOs travel costs spiked to $234 million. Just to remind our readers that 459 million dollars are what the WHO spent on fighting ebola. That is squarely 50% of the WHO’s ebola budget was used on travel expenses. While the three, worst-affected countries in West Africa bore the brunt of the outbreak and also paid for lavish arrangements demanded by WHO officials.Although under new leadership and having to face one of the most lethal and infectious pandemics in modern history. The WHO's track record when it comes to expansive travel costs remains a blight on its already questionable track record.

WHO spends more money on travel than on public health problems

Taiwan has claimed that the World Health Organisation is not sharing its reports with the world. Meanwhile, China is trying to deny Taiwan a place in the global forums.

Gravitas: Wuhan Coronavirus: Taiwan's big claim against WHO

An online petition seeking the resignation of W.H.O boss Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has emerged. The W.H.O. is facing criticism over its role during the coronavirus crisis. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why.

Gravitas: Demand grows for W.H.O Boss' resignation

The World Health Organization has announced trials for four drugs to treat the novel coronavirus. The first patients in a “historic” drug trial to test treatments for coronavirus have been enrolled in Norway and Spain.

"We are delighted to announce that today in Norway and spain, the first patients will shortly be enrolled in the solidarity trial, which will compare the safety and effectiveness of four different drugs or drug combinations against covid-19. This is a historic trial which will dramatically cut the time needed to generate robust evidence about what drugs work”, said World Health Organization Director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/who-warns-of-dramatic-evolution-of-coronavirus-in-africa-289008" hreflang="en">WHO warns of 'dramatic evolution' of coronavirus in Africa</a>

He further added that over 45 countries are joining the trial, and that more the participation, the better the results!

“In the meantime, we call on all individuals and countries to refrain from using therapeutics that have not been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of COVID-19", Ghebreyesus added.

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WHO officials are testing four of the most promising drugs to fight COVID-19: These include malaria medications Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine, an antiviral compound called Remdesivir, alongside a combination of HIV drugs - Lopinavir and Ritonavir.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/india-to-participate-in-who-solidarity-trial-for-developing-potential-covid-19-drugs-288976" hreflang="en">India to participate in WHO 'solidarity trial' for developing potential COVID-19 drugs</a>

Additionally, a combination of these are being mixed with interferon-beta!&nbsp;

According to a small study in France, Chloroquine and its derivative Hydroxychloroquine have helped in treating coronavirus patients.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly touted these drugs as potential treatments..

However, experts believe that the findings of the study were not definitive and more trials are needed.

But even with the clinical trials, the World Health Organisation still believes that a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 is still 12 to 18 months away.&nbsp;

The World Health Organization has announced trials for four drugs to treat the novel coronavirus. The first patients in a “historic” drug trial to test treatments for coronavirus have been enrolled in Norway and Spain.

The World Health Organization has announced trials for four drugs to treat the novel coronavirus. The first patients in a “historic” drug trial to test treatments for coronavirus have been enrolled in Norway and Spain. "We are delighted to announce that today in Norway and spain, the first patients will shortly be enrolled in the solidarity trial, which will compare the safety and effectiveness of four different drugs or drug combinations against covid-19. This is a historic trial which will dramatically cut the time needed to generate robust evidence about what drugs work”, said World Health Organization Director-general, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Also read: WHO warns of 'dramatic evolution' of coronavirus in Africa He further added that over 45 countries are joining the trial, and that more the participation, the better the results! “In the meantime, we call on all individuals and countries to refrain from using therapeutics that have not been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of COVID-19", Ghebreyesus added. WHO officials are testing four of the most promising drugs to fight COVID-19: These include malaria medications Chloroquine and Hydroxychloroquine, an antiviral compound called Remdesivir, alongside a combination of HIV drugs - Lopinavir and Ritonavir. Also read: India to participate in WHO 'solidarity trial' for developing potential COVID-19 drugs Additionally, a combination of these are being mixed with interferon-beta! According to a small study in France, Chloroquine and its derivative Hydroxychloroquine have helped in treating coronavirus patients. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly touted these drugs as potential treatments.. However, experts believe that the findings of the study were not definitive and more trials are needed. But even with the clinical trials, the World Health Organisation still believes that a vaccine to prevent COVID-19 is still 12 to 18 months away.

WHO begins drug trials to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic

The World Health Organization's regional director for Africa on Friday warned the continent faced a "dramatic evolution" of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

Of the 47 countries in the WHO Africa region -- which includes sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria -- 39 nations are now affected, compared with only one a month ago, Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti told French television channel France24.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-coronavirus-outbreak-the-worlds-biggest-intelligence-failure-288994">Is coronavirus outbreak the world’s biggest intelligence failure?</a>

Moeti said there have been about 300 cases per day in recent days, and called for "intensified action by African countries”.

"The situation is very worrying, with a dramatic evolution: an increase geographically in the number of countries and also an increase in the number of infections," Moeti said.

Cases have risen across the world's poorest continent over the past week to a total of nearly 3,500 cases and 94 deaths, according to an AFP tally that covers all of Africa.

African nations have ordered curfews and lockdowns in response to the growing pandemic, amid fears that weak health infrastructure will leave the continent terribly exposed to an outbreak on the scale of virus-stricken Europe.

Moeti acknowledged that measures were being taken to contain the spread of the virus and to isolate suspected cases.

Governments have banned religious gatherings and sporting events, while schools were closed in 25 countries, she said.

She noted that 42 countries are now able to diagnose the disease. "A few weeks ago, only two countries had the diagnostic capacity," she said.

But Moeti stressed that the continent was poorly equipped to deal with a major health crisis.

"It is true that in many African households people live in large families. It's very difficult sometimes for everyone to have their own room," she said.

"There is a very strong community life. We have to find other hygiene methods to minimise the spread of the virus." 
&nbsp;

The World Health Organization's regional director for Africa on Friday warned the continent faced a "dramatic evolution" of the coronavirus pandemic. Of the 47 countries in the WHO Africa region -- which includes sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria -- 39 nations are now affected, compared with only one a month ago, Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti told French television channel France24.

The World Health Organization's regional director for Africa on Friday warned the continent faced a "dramatic evolution" of the coronavirus pandemic. Of the 47 countries in the WHO Africa region -- which includes sub-Saharan Africa and Algeria -- 39 nations are now affected, compared with only one a month ago, Matshidiso Rebecca Moeti told French television channel France24. Also read | Is coronavirus outbreak the world’s biggest intelligence failure? Moeti said there have been about 300 cases per day in recent days, and called for "intensified action by African countries”. "The situation is very worrying, with a dramatic evolution: an increase geographically in the number of countries and also an increase in the number of infections," Moeti said. Cases have risen across the world's poorest continent over the past week to a total of nearly 3,500 cases and 94 deaths, according to an AFP tally that covers all of Africa. African nations have ordered curfews and lockdowns in response to the growing pandemic, amid fears that weak health infrastructure will leave the continent terribly exposed to an outbreak on the scale of virus-stricken Europe. Moeti acknowledged that measures were being taken to contain the spread of the virus and to isolate suspected cases. Governments have banned religious gatherings and sporting events, while schools were closed in 25 countries, she said. She noted that 42 countries are now able to diagnose the disease. "A few weeks ago, only two countries had the diagnostic capacity," she said. But Moeti stressed that the continent was poorly equipped to deal with a major health crisis. "It is true that in many African households people live in large families. It's very difficult sometimes for everyone to have their own room," she said. "There is a very strong community life. We have to find other hygiene methods to minimise the spread of the virus."

WHO warns of 'dramatic evolution' of coronavirus in Africa

The World Health Organisation has lauded India's efforts in taking early steps in combating the novel coronavirus. It said that it is very good for India to take these early steps before the situation becomes worse. WHO has also listed six steps to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Watch report:

WHO lists six steps to combat coronavirus pandemic, Lauds India for taking early steps

After Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra has now taken up WHO's #SafeHands challenge. The actress posted a video on Instagram on Wednesday where she can be seen taking up WHO's hand wash challenge. 
The actress washes her hand following the guideline given by WHO and even croons a song which incidentally has been penned by her musician husband, Nick Jonas. 
 
"I accept the #SafeHands challenge @DrTedros. One of the main takeaways from our IG live chat yesterday was the importance of washing your hands properly. It’s a simple action that can help save lives and flatten the curve. And here's a song to ensure you're doing this for at least 20 seconds. co-written by @nickjonas.I nominate @katebosworth, @mindykaling, @nickjonas, @parineetichopra, and @amitabhbachchan. Namaste", she wrote on Instagram.

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-K1Y55D33h/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">I accept the #SafeHands challenge 🧼@DrTedros. One of the main takeaways from our IG live chat yesterday was the importance of washing your hands properly. It’s a simple action that can help save lives and flatten the curve. And here's a song to ensure you're doing this for at least 20 seconds.🎵 co-written by @nickjonas. I nominate @katebosworth, @mindykaling, @nickjonas, @parineetichopra and @amitabhbachchan. Namaste 🙏🏽</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/priyankachopra/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Priyanka Chopra Jonas</a> (@priyankachopra) on <time datetime="2020-03-25T20:03:12+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 25, 2020 at 1:03pm PDT</time>
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Several celebrities have shared videos on social media where they can be seen taking 'Safe Hands Challenge'. Chopra was nominated by the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to create awareness among her followers amid the coronavirus outbreak. 
 
Earlier, on Tuesday, the actress had gone live on her Instagram page with Dr. Tedros and took up questions about the COVID-19 pandemic in an attempt to spread awareness about the disease.

After Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra has now taken up WHO's #SafeHands challenge. The actress posted a video on Instagram on Wednesday where she can be seen taking up WHO's hand wash challenge.

After Deepika Padukone and Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra has now taken up WHO's #SafeHands challenge. The actress posted a video on Instagram on Wednesday where she can be seen taking up WHO's hand wash challenge. The actress washes her hand following the guideline given by WHO and even croons a song which incidentally has been penned by her musician husband, Nick Jonas. "I accept the #SafeHands challenge @DrTedros. One of the main takeaways from our IG live chat yesterday was the importance of washing your hands properly. It’s a simple action that can help save lives and flatten the curve. And here's a song to ensure you're doing this for at least 20 seconds. co-written by @nickjonas.I nominate @katebosworth, @mindykaling, @nickjonas, @parineetichopra, and @amitabhbachchan. Namaste", she wrote on Instagram. View this post on Instagram I accept the #SafeHands challenge 🧼@DrTedros. One of the main takeaways from our IG live chat yesterday was the importance of washing your hands properly. It’s a simple action that can help save lives and flatten the curve. And here's a song to ensure you're doing this for at least 20 seconds.🎵 co-written by @nickjonas. I nominate @katebosworth, @mindykaling, @nickjonas, @parineetichopra and @amitabhbachchan. Namaste 🙏🏽 A post shared by Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@priyankachopra) on Mar 25, 2020 at 1:03pm PDT × Several celebrities have shared videos on social media where they can be seen taking 'Safe Hands Challenge'. Chopra was nominated by the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus to create awareness among her followers amid the coronavirus outbreak. Earlier, on Tuesday, the actress had gone live on her Instagram page with Dr. Tedros and took up questions about the COVID-19 pandemic in an attempt to spread awareness about the disease.

Priyanka Chopra takes up WHO's #SafeHands challenge, croons a song penned by husband Nick Jonas

The Wuhan coronavirus has taken almost 20 thousand lives now. Every day, the numbers are rising. We are battling a full-blown health crisis.

China is guilty of covering up the outbreak, but what about the world's biggest multilateral health organisation --- the WHO? Has the World Health Organisation done enough?

Taiwan says the WHO failed to do enough, it ignored the warnings and succumbed to pressure from&nbsp; 
&nbsp;China. Taiwan has been barred from membership of the WHO, but its arguments have merits. 
 
WATCH: Is WHO doing enough?&nbsp;

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The coronavirus crisis began in January and the WHO has always seemed a step behind. It declared the outbreak a global health emergency when more than eight thousand people were infected already.

It dragged its heels when it was supposed to declare a pandemic. It's unfortunate, but history is repeating itself. During the SARS outbreak of 2002, China committed the same lapses.

China's health ministry was aware for months, but they didn't tell the world. Consequently, SARS spread to 29 countries and 774 people were killed.

In 2005, WHO saw sweeping reforms and international health regulations were revised. This includes the authority to act upon information from non-state sources.

The WHO Director-General was empowered to declare an outbreak a public health emergency, even if states directly affected by the crisis object.

The WHO was also given powers to name and shame those countries, that do not comply with the international health regulations.

Did the World Health Organisation follow the new rulebook now? They did not call out China for suppressing facts. Instead, Beijing was praised for its response.

WHO relies on its members for funding to operate, such a set up gives wealthy countries like China the upper hand, as well as, considerable influence.

The biggest example of that is how China has been able to effectively block Taiwan's entry into the WHO.

WHO is the only organisation that can declare a pandemic, it is the only world body that can mobilize internationally in the event of health threats, but the current coronavirus outbreak shows that it has a broken setup - one that can be easily influenced by powerful nations.

&nbsp;(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
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The Wuhan coronavirus has taken almost 20 thousand lives now. Every day, the numbers are rising. We are battling a full-blown health crisis. China is guilty of covering up the outbreak, but what about the world's biggest multilateral health organisation --- the WHO?

The Wuhan coronavirus has taken almost 20 thousand lives now. Every day, the numbers are rising. We are battling a full-blown health crisis. China is guilty of covering up the outbreak, but what about the world's biggest multilateral health organisation --- the WHO? Has the World Health Organisation done enough? Taiwan says the WHO failed to do enough, it ignored the warnings and succumbed to pressure from China. Taiwan has been barred from membership of the WHO, but its arguments have merits. WATCH: Is WHO doing enough? × The coronavirus crisis began in January and the WHO has always seemed a step behind. It declared the outbreak a global health emergency when more than eight thousand people were infected already. It dragged its heels when it was supposed to declare a pandemic. It's unfortunate, but history is repeating itself. During the SARS outbreak of 2002, China committed the same lapses. China's health ministry was aware for months, but they didn't tell the world. Consequently, SARS spread to 29 countries and 774 people were killed. In 2005, WHO saw sweeping reforms and international health regulations were revised. This includes the authority to act upon information from non-state sources. The WHO Director-General was empowered to declare an outbreak a public health emergency, even if states directly affected by the crisis object. The WHO was also given powers to name and shame those countries, that do not comply with the international health regulations. Did the World Health Organisation follow the new rulebook now? They did not call out China for suppressing facts. Instead, Beijing was praised for its response. WHO relies on its members for funding to operate, such a set up gives wealthy countries like China the upper hand, as well as, considerable influence. The biggest example of that is how China has been able to effectively block Taiwan's entry into the WHO. WHO is the only organisation that can declare a pandemic, it is the only world body that can mobilize internationally in the event of health threats, but the current coronavirus outbreak shows that it has a broken setup - one that can be easily influenced by powerful nations. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Has the WHO failed in its fight against coronavirus?

The World Health Organisation is under scanner. It is being criticised for 'going slow' during the coronavirus outbreak. WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you why WHO's response to this pandemic leaves a lot to be desired on WION Edit.

WION Edit: Wuhan Coronavirus: Is WHO doing enough?

To answer all our questions on the world's battle against the novel coronavirus. WION spoke to WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic from Geneva. Watch report:

WION Exclusive conversation with WHO spokesperson on world's battle against COVID-19

World Health Organization is concerned that countries are not running adequate coronavirus tests in every suspected case.

WHO asks governments to run more tests

WHO says, Every country should test every suspected case of Covid 19. This test are very costly. we are telling you the costing here

Test every suspected case-WHO, Do you want to know how much test cost

ICMR holds a press conference to tell Indian people that they should not worry much. India yet not reach to the 3rd stage. Dr Balram Bhargava says, India will get test kits soon from WHO.

ICMR press briefing: India gets 1 million test kits from WHO soon

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