Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a Nigerian economist, has been confirmed as Director General (DG) by the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Dr Okonjo-Iweala thereby becomes the first African and the first woman to head the WTO. Her appointment was confirmed on Monday.
WTO members took the decision to appoint Okonjo-Iweala at a special meeting of the General Council, following a selection process that included eight candidates from around the world.
WTO is the intergovernmental organization that is concerned with the regulation of international trade between nations.
In a congratulatory message, President of the European Council (EC), Charles Michel said Okonjo-Iweala can count on the full support of the European Union (EU).
“My warmest wishes to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala @NOIweala on your appointment as Director General of @wto. You bring a wealth of experience and expertise at a time when the WTO needs reform. Count on full support of the EU,” Michel tweeted.
My warmest wishes to Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala @NOIweala on your appointment as Director General of @wto
You bring a wealth of experience and expertise at a time when the WTO needs reform.
Okonjo-Iweala prevailed over several other candidates in the months-long WTO leadership race, including South Korean Trade Minister Yoo Myung Hee, her main rival.
