WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala Reappointed for Second Term
Geneva, November 29, 2024 – The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reappointed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General for a second four-year term. Her reappointment was confirmed through a consensus decision by WTO member countries.
In a statement following her reappointment, Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude and commitment to continuing the work of the organization. She highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges facing the global trading system, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the need to promote sustainable development.
“I am honored and humbled by the trust that WTO members have placed in me by reappointing me as Director-General,” said Okonjo-Iweala. “I am eager to continue working with all members to make the WTO more responsive, effective, and inclusive.”
During her first term, Okonjo-Iweala has overseen significant reforms and initiatives within the WTO. These include:
- Facilitating the conclusion of the first multilateral trade agreement in 20 years, the Trade Facilitation Agreement.
- Establishing a new dispute settlement system to address longstanding concerns about the Appellate Body.
- Launching a dialogue on the future of the WTO, which has focused on modernizing the organization and addressing emerging challenges.
Okonjo-Iweala emphasized that her priorities for the second term will include:
- Strengthening the multilateral trading system and enhancing its relevance in addressing global economic issues.
- Supporting members in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing the economic challenges arising from the war in Ukraine.
- Promoting sustainable development and inclusive trade.
- Encouraging greater participation and engagement from developing countries and least-developed countries in the WTO.
“The world is facing unprecedented challenges, and the WTO has a vital role to play in addressing them,” said Okonjo-Iweala. “I am committed to working with all stakeholders to strengthen the WTO and ensure that it remains a cornerstone of the global trading system.”
Okonjo-Iweala’s second term will begin on January 1, 2025.
Statement by Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala following her reappointment as Director-General
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