[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), emphasized that he has "worked day and night" in response to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Director-General Ghebreyesus stated on the 22nd (local time) at the 147th WHO Executive Board meeting that since the outbreak of COVID-19 was reported, the WHO has continuously provided related information and technical support to its 194 member countries and has called for political solidarity.
He also self-assessed that the WHO held daily press briefings to create communication channels for sharing information and experiences, sent personal protective equipment for COVID-19 to over 120 countries, and expanded COVID-19 testing capacity in Africa.
He further revealed that funding to sustain these efforts is insufficient. It is expected that $1.7 billion (approximately 2.1 trillion KRW) will be needed this year alone for COVID-19 response, but so far, only $800 million has been donated or pledged.
Director-General Ghebreyesus said, "I look forward to working together to promote health and support vulnerable groups."
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