China Reacts to Trump's UNESCO Decision
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China accused the U.S. of negating its responsibilities as a major global power in response to President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Trump is pulling the U.S. from UNESCO after his administration's review raised concerns about perceived pro-Palestinian and pro-Chinese bias, and an emphasis on "woke" diversity, equity, and inclusion policies that Washington opposes.
"It's the third time the U.S. has withdrawn from UNESCO. The country hasn't paid arrears for a long time. This is not what a major country should do," Guo Jiakun, spokesman for the Chinese foreign ministry, said at a press briefing on Wednesday, July 23.
He added: "China firmly supports UNESCO's work."
Jiakun noted the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, and said China calls on all countries "to reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism and take concrete action to support the UN-centered international system".
The Trump Administration has sought to withdraw the U.S. from multilateral organizations and agreements that it sees as running against American interests.
He had withdrawn from UNESCO during his first term, only for his successor President Joe Biden to re-enter in an effort to counter growing Chinese influence over the agency and its priorities.
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
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