WORLD: US finally backs Okonjo-Iweala for WTO top job

THE United States of America, under the Biden-Harris administration, has backed Nigeria’s candidate, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, to lead the World Trade Organisation.

The Trump administration had supported South Korea’s Trade Minister, Yoo Myung-hee, for the job.

But the South Korea candidate announced her withdrawal from the race early today.

The statement from the US today was issued by the Office of the United States Trade Representative.

It reads, “The United States takes note of today’s decision by the Republic of Korea’s Trade Minister Yoo Myung-hee to withdraw her candidacy for Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

“The Biden-Harris Administration is pleased to express its strong support for the candidacy of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the next Director-General of the WTO.

“Dr. Okonjo-Iweala brings a wealth of knowledge in economics and international diplomacy from her 25 years with the World Bank and two terms as Nigerian Finance Minister.

“She is widely respected for her effective leadership and has proven experience managing a large international organization with a diverse membership.”

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala is to become the first African, and female leader of the World Trade Organisation.