Iran Press/Europe: "Deeply regret U.S. decision to suspend funding to WHO. There is no reason justifying this move at a moment when their efforts are needed more than ever," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Twitter.
U.S. President Donald Trump has instructed his administration to temporarily halt funding to the World Health Organization (WHO) over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic.
The United States is the WHO's biggest overall donor, Reuters reported.
Trump said the WHO had "failed in its basic duty and it must be held accountable".
In response, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said: "Not the time" to reduce resources for WHO operations.
"Now is the time for unity and for the international community to work together in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences," he said.
China urged the United States to fulfill 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 U.S. decision would affect all countries.
Also, German foreign minister Heiko Maas said: "Apportioning blame doesn't help. The virus knows no borders".
"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."
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