China has strongly criticized the United States after it announced plans to withdraw from UNESCO. The Chinese government described the move as “irresponsible,” pointing fingers at the Trump administration for not acting like a global leader.

During a press briefing held on Wednesday, July 23, a spokesperson from China’s foreign ministry expressed regret over the US decision. They said China fully supports UNESCO and is disappointed by America’s choice.

According to Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun, walking away from UNESCO is not how a major and responsible country should behave. He emphasized that China values UNESCO’s mission and work.

The US had announced its decision to leave UNESCO a day earlier, on Tuesday, July 22. The State Department said the agency no longer aligns with American interests. They also stated that UNESCO’s support for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals goes against their “America First” approach.

In the same statement, the US criticized UNESCO for allowing Palestine to become a member. They described this as a problem that doesn’t match US foreign policy goals.

As outlined in UNESCO’s rules, the US exit will officially take place on December 31, 2026. Until that date, the United States will still remain an active member.

This decision adds to a list of global exits under President Trump. Earlier, he also pulled the US out of the World Health Organization during the early days of his second term.

In response, UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, said the organization regrets President Trump’s decision. She mentioned that it goes against global cooperation but added that UNESCO had already expected the move.

UNESCO also shared that since 2018, it has adapted to the drop in US financial support. The US now contributes only 8% to the agency’s total budget. Meanwhile, the organization has gained more support from other countries and private donors, helping it grow stronger financially.