United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is concerned about the US halting foreign aid and has urged on the country to continue its humanitarian aid to the world’s most vulnerable communities that depend on this assistance.
The US State Department issued a “stop action” order for existing and new foreign aid at the beginning of Donald Trump’s second term but granted exemptions for military funding to Israel and Egypt.
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told media about the suspension of US foreign aid that Guterres has asked the US to consider further exemptions so that vital development and humanitarian activities can continue for the world’s most vulnerable communities that depend on this aid.
In a statement, the UN said: “The Secretary-General looks forward to engaging with the new United States administration on the provision of much-needed development support to people grappling with the most difficult challenges confronting the developing world”.
“The United States is one of the largest aid providers and it is vital that we work constructively to jointly shape a strategic path forward”.
This UN concern has been raised while US President Donald Trump has ordered a 90-day suspension of foreign aid to review its effectiveness and compatibility with his foreign policy.
The review of the decision, which is expected to take more than 80 days, leaves the fate of hundreds of US foreign aid contracts in limbo.
According to reports, the US is the largest aid donor in the world, providing about $72 billion in aid to various countries in fiscal year 2023.
hz/ma
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