Australia calls for independent investigation into global response to coronavirus pandemic

Australia today called for an independent investigation into the global response to the coronavirus pandemic, including the World Health Organization’s handling of the crisis.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said, the country will insist on a review that would probe, in part China’s early response to the outbreak in Wuhan.

Payne said, Australia shared similar concerns to the United States. US President Donald Trump has accused the WHO of mismanaging the crisis and covering up the seriousness of China’s outbreak before it spread. Donald Trump has also announced that Washington will halt payments to the UN body that amounted to USD 400 million last year.

Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt backed the call for an independent review, saying Australia had achieved success in limiting the spread of the virus in part by going against WHO advice.