The United States has formally moved to withdraw from the World Health Organisation (WHO), with the decision taking effect on January 22, 2026, following a one-year notice issued through an executive order by President Donald Trump.

Despite the effective date, uncertainty remains over the withdrawal, as the US reportedly owes the WHO approximately US$278 million in outstanding contributions, and the organisation has yet to officially acknowledge the exit.

The WHO Constitution does not explicitly provide a mechanism for member withdrawal or a formal approval process. As a result, the matter is expected to be deliberated by WHO member states during discussions scheduled for February.

Senegal has rewarded its triumphant 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a generous state-backed incentive package after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye approved financial bonuses and land allocations for the victorious team.

Under the package, the Teranga Lions players will each receive US$135 000 in cash and a 1 500-square-metre residential stand, while members of the technical and support staff are set to benefit from US$90 000 each, along with 1 000-square-metre plots. The rewards reflect the government’s appreciation of the squad’s historic continental success.

The incentives were officially announced at a presidential ceremony held in Dakar, where President Faye hosted the players and team officials following their AFCON final victory.

President Faye said the team’s achievement had played a key role in fostering national unity and had significantly boosted Senegal’s reputation both across Africa and on the global stage.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasised the importance of strengthening and stabilising relations between China and Canada, saying closer ties serve the shared interests of both nations and contribute to global peace, stability and economic growth.

Xi made the remarks on Friday during talks with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in Beijing.

Reflecting on their previous meeting on the sidelines of the APEC Summit held in Gyeongju, South Korea, in October last year, Xi said the engagement marked the beginning of renewed cooperation and a positive shift in bilateral relations.

He urged both countries to approach their relationship with a sense of responsibility to history, their citizens and the international community. Xi called on China and Canada to work together toward establishing a new-type strategic partnership anchored in healthy, stable and long-term development, ensuring tangible benefits for people in both countries.

The Chinese leader further stressed the need for mutual respect, trust, shared development and close cooperation, adding that these principles should guide future engagement between the two sides.

Prime Minister Carney noted that Canada and China have a long-standing record of friendly interaction, supported by complementary economies and wide-ranging common interests. He highlighted the significant potential for deeper cooperation.

Carney said Canada is ready to work with China to build a resilient and sustainable new-type strategic partnership that delivers meaningful gains for citizens of both nations.