Ngozi Okonjo-IwealaA key group of WTO ambassadors has proposed Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to lead the World Trade Organization, trade sources told Reuters on Wednesday, clearing a path for her to become the first woman and African to head the global watchdog in its 25-year history. The decision, yet to be finalised, caps a more than four-month selection process involving intensive lobbying which saw her square up against South Korean trade minister Yoo Myung-hee in the final round. The leadership void was created after outgoing WTO chief Roberto Azevedo, from Brazil, stepped down a year early in August. Okonjo-Iweala, a development expert, has branded herself a “do-er”, saying she has the political clout to command influence in capitals. Currently chair of the of GAVI vaccine alliance board, Okonjo-Iweala has also said the WTO should play a role in helping poorer countries access COVID-19 drugs and vaccines.

Source: Standard Digital October 28, 2020 16:52 UTC