US and China on Thursday exchanged sharp words over the COVID-19 crisis at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) meeting.
The summit that was held virtually saw the US demanding complete transparency and data sharing to tide over the crisis posed by the virus.
Permanent Ambassador of the US Kelly Craft said:
“The US reiterates today the need for complete transparency and the timely sharing of public health data and information within the international community”.
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She also emphasized on the importance of scientific evaluations and study.
“The most effective way of containing this pandemic is through accurate, science based date collection and analysis of the origins, characteristics and spread of the virus”, she added.
According to Reuters, it is believed that the Chinese delegation rejected these claims and warned against politicisation and stigmatisation.
The stage was set earlier by US President Donald Trump who said that the WHO worked at the behest of the Chinese and he also threatened to cut their funding.
This meeting was called after nine out of the 15 members urged the council to discuss the emerging situation.
China which held the presidency of the Council till March, had not acquiesced to a meeting to discuss the COVID-19.
The meeting began with the United Nations Secretary General Antonio Gutteres warning the Council that this is the biggest crisis facing humanity and the UN, since its creation in 1945.
The Member states expressed their support to the UN Secretary General and agreed to actively work towards mitigating the damages caused due to this virus.