Australia’s call for an independent probe into the coronavirus outbreak, just before the World Health Assembly convenes, is expected to receive support from over 110 countries, Axios reports.
Australian officials told Sky News they expect a strong backing for their investigation request when it is presented Monday. The United States is not a signatory on the request.
All 194 World Health Organization member states are scheduled to attend the 73rd World Health Assembly virtually.
The meeting is supposed to focus on international cooperation on vaccines, treatments and testing to combat the coronavirus.
Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison first called for an inquiry into the virus last month. The move angered China, which claims the probe is a political ploy against Beijing. The Chinese blocked Australian beef and barley imports and imposed tariffs in response.
Australian trade minister Simon Birmingham said he made attempts to work through the disputes with Chinese officials but has not had any calls returned.