WTO DG: EU, WHO Salute Okonjo-Iweala’s ‘Wealth Of Experience’

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Council, on Monday, pledged to work with the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, citing her experience as a major boost to the organization.

WHO DG, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said that the announcement of Okonjo-Iweala was a welcome development to the world at a time it needs unifying leadership that will effectively coordinate the fight against covid-19 pandemic.

“Glad to see my sister @NOIweala appointed @wto DirectorGeneral. Your great experience, skills & advocacy to tackle today’s challenges, incl #VaccinEquity, make you WTO’s perfect chief. I look forward to working with you to help the Earth recover from COVID19,” he tweeted.

As for the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, he made it clear that Okonjo-Iweala’s capacity to lead could not be doubted.

He also said that members of the European Union would work with her in bringing the necessary reform to the WTO.

“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,” he stated.

Recall that Okonjo-Iweala has for the past 30 years worked with different international organizations, including as a Covid-19 envoy for WHO and AU.

Meanwhile, the president of the European Central Bank, Christine Lagarde, noted her “strong will” in leading WTO, adding that “I’ve known Ngozi for many years.”

Also, the United Nations Office joined in wishing her well.

“Congratulations to @NOIweala on her appointment as the next Director-General of the World Trade Organization @wto! Ms. Okonjo-Iweala will take over in two weeks, on 1 March 2021,” it tweeted.