The head of the World Health Organization has called on the international community to work together to bolster preparations for the next pandemic.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus spoke in an interview with NHK on Saturday in Tokyo.
Referring to the coronavirus outbreak, he warned that the next pandemic is not a matter of if, but when.
He stressed the importance of coordinated international measures against future outbreaks of infectious diseases through the Pandemic Agreement that was adopted by WHO member states in May. He said, "Humanity is confronted with a common enemy, like the COVID virus that doesn't recognize maps or borders, or doesn't need a visa." He went on to say that in a world that is getting smaller, solidarity is "our best immunity."
When asked about the United States' announced withdrawal from the WHO and its suspension of funding, Tedros admitted that programs targeting HIV, malaria and tuberculosis have been affected. He expressed a strong sense of crisis, calling the US move a loss for the world.
But he said he also sees the crisis as an opportunity to improve the WHO through diversification of financial sources and staff reductions.
Tedros stressed the importance of "universal health coverage" or UHC, which is meant to ensure that all people have access to quality health services without financial hardship. He explained that UHC identifies health as a fundamental human right. The WHO chief voiced high expectations for Japan in global efforts to achieve this goal.

Quiz 1:
According to the WHO Director-General, when will the next pandemic occur?
A. If
B. When
C. Maybe
D. Never

Quiz 2:
What does the WHO Director-General refer to humanity as being confronted with in a small world?
A. A unique challenge
B. A common enemy
C. A global opportunity
D. An unstoppable force

Quiz 3:
Which of the following diseases has been affected due to the United States' withdrawal from the WHO and suspension of funding?
A. Ebola
B. HIV
C. Malaria
D. Zika virus