United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres, says the billions of dollars the United States (US) owes to the world body is non-negotiable.

This comes after reports that Washington had placed conditions on releasing the funds. US media reported this week that two- diplomatic notes circulated by the US called for nine- quick hit reforms, as a condition for releasing more funds- including further cost cutting, and moves to counter China’s influence at the world body.

Guterres said that assessed contributions are an obligation of member states.

“Assessed contributions are an obligation of member states. They are non-negotiable. Obviously, we will do our best to pursue our reforms, unity and to make sure that we make this organisation as effective and as cost-effective as possible and as able to deliver for the people we care for. But these are two separate things,” said Guterres.

–Reuters–