The United States led by President Joe Biden has given its endorsement to Nigeria’s Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, taking out the major obstacle for her to emerge as the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO)
Recall that South Korean Trade Minister and candidate, Yoo Myung-hee, who was Okonjo-Iweala’s last contender had announced her withdrawal from the race on Friday.
Following the withdrawal of Yoo Myung-hee, the United States released a statement through its office of trade representative, announcing its endorsement of former Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala who was previously rejected by the Donald Trump’s administration.
Below is statement announcing the U.S. endorsement
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.
The Biden-Harris Administration also congratulates Minister Yoo Myung-hee on her strong campaign for this position. She is a trailblazer as the Republic of Korea’s first female trade minister and the first candidate from Korea to advance this far in the Director General selection process. The United States respects her decision to withdraw her candidacy from the Director General race to help facilitate a consensus decision at the WTO.
