Geneva: Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the United Nations in Geneva Gennady Gatilov affirmed Sunday that Russia will not withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO) and will continue to use this platform for dialogue.

According to Qatar News Agency, Gatilov stated in an interview with Sputnik that Russia intends to maintain its engagement with the WHO for mutually beneficial dialogue with all interested countries. He highlighted that Russia’s approach is consistent and oriented towards supporting the UN system.

Gatilov emphasized that modern challenges, particularly in the realm of health protection, are global and require joint cooperation for effective resolution. He underscored the need for coordinated and targeted multilateral efforts, emphasizing the special responsibility borne by the WHO as the directing and coordinating authority on international health work, as defined by its constitution.

The backdrop to Russia’s affirmation includes recent developments where Argentina announced its withdrawal from the WHO, following a precedent set by the United States when President Donald Trump signed an executive order for withdrawal on his first day in office on January 21.