RESTRICTED  
  
WT/GC/M/189  
 
25 March 2021  
(21-2444) Page: 1/42 
General Council  
15 February 2021    
 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
HELD IN VIRTUAL FORMAT ON 1 5 FEBRUARY  2021 
Chairperson: H.E. Dr. David Walker (New Zealand)  
1  APPOINTMENT OF THE NEXT DIRECTOR -GENERAL1 
1.1.  The Chairman  recalled that , further to the resignation of the former Director -General Roberto 
Azevêdo  one year ahead of his official term, in keeping with the Procedures agreed by the General 
Council in 2002 and contained in document WT/L/509, the process for the appointment of the ne xt 
Director -General started with his communication to all Members on 20 May 2020, contained in 
JOB/GC/230. In that communication, he had  indicated that the one -month nomination process – 
that was, Phase One of the process – would start on 8 June 2020.  
1.2.  By the end of the nomination period, eight candidates had been nominated by their respective 
Governments. Given the urgency of the situation, in line with Paragraph 23 of the Procedures and 
further to a process of consultations he had  undert aken in that respect, Members  had agreed that 
the duration of Phase 2 of the process – i.e. the Phase in which the candidates ma de themselves 
known to Members – would be of two months instead of three.   
1.3.  Still in keeping with the Procedures, the eight nominated candid ates had been  invited to meet 
with Members at a formal General Council meeting, which had been  held from 15 to 17 July. At that 
meeting, each candidate had made a brief presentation, including their vision for the WTO, followed 
by a question -and-answer per iod.  
1.4.  Guided by the views expressed by Members, on 31 July , he had  announced the modalities for 
Phase 3 of the process – that was the consultation period to arrive at a final choice for appointment. 
Those modalities c ould be found in JOB/GC/243. He had  also indicated that, consistent with the 
Procedures, he would be assisted in th at Phase by the Chairs of the Dispute Settlement Body and 
the Trade Policy Review Body acting as Facilitators – respectively, Ambassador Dacio Castillo of 
Honduras and Ambassador H arald Aspelund of Iceland.  
1.5.  The Facilitators and he had  conducted three rounds of consultations, starting on 7 September. 
The organization of work for th ose three rounds had been  the same. In each round, Members had 
been each asked the same question to expr ess their preferences. All the information they had  
received from Members had been  treated by them in the strictest confidence.  
1.6.  The Facilitators and he had  reported at Informal Heads of Delegation meetings the outcome of 
the consultations at each successiv e stage. His reports to th ose three informal HODs meetings – 
which had been  held on 19 September, 8 October and 28 October – had been  circulated in documents 
JOB/GC/244, JOB/GC/ 245 and JOB/GC/ 247, respectively. At the Heads of Delegation meeting on 
28 October, in accordance with the Procedures, he, together with the Facilitators, had reported the 
outcome of the third and final round of consultations and had announced that they would  be 
submitting the name of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala of Nigeria as the candida te most likely to attract 
 
1 The proposed agenda was c irculated in document WT/GC/W/ 817. WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  consensus, and recommending her appointment by the General Council as the next Director -General 
of the WTO.  
1.7.  A special General Council meeting had then been convened for 9 November. On 6 November, 
he had circulated a communication to all Members in JOB/GC/248 in which he had indicated that it 
had come to his attention that for reasons of the health situation and events at that time, delegations 
had not been in a position to take a formal decision on 9 November. He had  postponed the meeting 
until further notice and he had  continued to undertake consultations with delegations.  
1.8.  Recent developments ha d made it possible for the process to be taken forward, and fo r that 
meeting to take place t hat day so that the General Council c ould take appropriate action. In th at 
respect, on behalf of the Membership, he express their gratitude to Her Excellency Minister 
Yoo Myung -hee of the Republic of Korea for her participatio n in th e selection process, and for her 
ongoing commitment to and support for the multilateral trading system and for the WTO.  He also 
formally pa id tribute again to all candidates in th at process. He was sure all Members agree d that 
they had had eight exc eptionally qualified candidates for th at position, and their participation ha d 
enriched the process and the organization as a whole.  
1.9.  He also  express ed his sincere gratitude to the Facilitators, Ambassador Dacio Castillo and 
Ambassador Harald Aspelund. The y had worked with enormous dedication and he would like to place 
on record their integrity, impartiality and commitment in th e process. And last but certainly not 
least, he paid tribute to Members for their sustained engagement, support and constructive at titude, 
including during challenging times and through to the positive developments of th ose last few days. 
That had finally made it possible for them to take th e process to its intended destination.  
1.10.   With th ose words, it was with great pleasure that he turned to the business of t hat day's 
meeting for appropriate action by the General Council . He stated that:  
"In accordance with Paragraph 19 of the Procedures, I , as General Council Chair, 
supported by the Facilitators, thereby  recommend formally that the General Council 
agree to appoint Dr . Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala of Nigeria as the next Director -General of the 
WTO, starting on 1 March 2021 until 31 August 2025.  
This appointment is made pursuant to Paragraph 21 of the Procedures in document 
WT/L/509, mutatis mutan dis, and the understanding reached by the General Council in 
July 2020 regarding interim arrangements will continue to apply until the beginning of 
the term of office of the DG -designate, on 1 March 2021."  
1.11.   The General Counci l so agreed . 
1.12.   The Chairman  noted that it  was a very significant moment for the WTO. On behalf of the  
General Council, he extend ed his warmest congratulations to Dr . Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her 
appointment as the next WTO  Director -General and formally welcome d her to th e General Council 
meeting. On behalf of all Members , he wished to sincerely thank her for her graciousness in th ose 
exceptional months, and for her patience.  He looked forward to collaborating closely with her and 
he was certain that all Members  would work with her constructively during her tenure as Director -
General to shape the future of th e organization. He reiterate d his appreciation and gratitude for the 
constructive approach taken by all Members in developing and finalizing consensus in th e 
appointment process.  
1.13.   Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala , Director -General designate2, thank ed Ambassador Walker, and 
Ambassadors Castillo and Aspelund for their hard work, commitment, and dedication in steering th e 
selection process to its conclusion. She paid tribute to the seven other highly qualified candidates 
for having come forward to participate in th e selection process. The energy and dedication they had 
brought to the process had enriched it and  had underscored their shared belief in the ability of the 
multilateral trading system to make a significant contribution to the expansion of the global economy 
for the benefit of all Members.  
 
2 Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala 's statement was subsequently circulated in document  JOB/GC/ 250. WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  1.14.   She expressed her p rofound gratitude to the WTO Membership for electing her to lead t he 
organization at th at critical juncture. She extended s pecial thanks to President Muhammadu Buhari 
and all her Nigerian compatriots for their support and prayers. She also recogni zed and thank ed 
ECOWAS and AU Heads of State, the ACP SG and membership for  their early support of her 
candidacy. She t hanked other Members who had supported her candidacy from start to finish of the 
selection process.  
1.15.   Without the recent swift action by the Biden -Harris Administration to join the consensus of 
the Membership on her candidacy, Members  would not be there t hat day. She was grateful to the 
United States  for the prompt action and strong expression of support. She likewise  thank ed her  
family and friends , too numerous to name, for their strength and encouragement througho ut the 
process. It ha d been a long and tough road full of uncertainty but it was the dawn of a new day, and 
the real work c ould begin.  
1.16.   That day, WTO Members were making history. For the first time in the seventy -three years 
of the GATT and the WTO, they were selecting a woman and an African as Director -General. Th at 
was ground -breaking  and positive. She was grateful for the trust they had in her, not just as a 
woman and an African, but also in her knowledge, experience, and, as some of them had said, 
possessing the courage and passion to work with them to undertake the wide ranging reforms the 
WTO need ed to reposition itself for the future. At the WTO, the D irector -General  led from behind 
working w ith the talented secretariat staff to help Members achieve results. They could count on her 
to be proactive, to work hard, to be balanced, fair, professional, and objective, so as to continuously 
earn and sustain their trust. That way, together, they could restore and rebrand the WTO as a key 
pillar of global economic governance, a force for a strong, transparent, and fair multilateral trading 
system, and an instrument for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.  
1.17.   The preamble to the Marrakesh  Agreement state d that the objectives of the WTO were to 
raise living standards, ensure full employment, increase incomes, expand the production of and 
trade in goods and services, and seek the optimal use of the world's resources in accordance with 
the ob jective of sustainable development. The preamble sa id it all. The WTO was about people . It 
was about decent work . She encouraged Members to  place the WTO's  overarching purpose front and 
centre as a driver for all they sought to accomplish for the multilate ral trading system.  
1.18.   The WTO had already been facing acute challenges before COVID -19. Th ose challenges ha d 
been amplified by the pandemic. In addition to the regretful mounting loss of life, the pandemic ha d 
wreaked havoc on the global economy, impacting supply chains and disrupting transport and travel. 
The crisis ha d upended trade and economic activities leading to job losses and reduced incomes 
around the world. It ha d erased years of economic gains made by several developing countries and 
even decades of growth in some low income and least developed countries. Many ha d been pushed 
deeper into debt compromising their ability to meet the UN SDGs by 2030.  
1.19.   But there was hope on the horizon. The WTO expect ed world merchandise trade to rebound 
strongly in 2021. The IMF forecast ed an 8% growth in global trade volumes in 2021 and a 6% growth 
in 2022 while it estimate d global GDP to rebound from a -4.4% growth rate in 2020 to 5.5% in 
2021, with a projected 4.2% growth rate in 2022.  
1.20.   However, Members  could not be complacent. For the global economy to return to sustained 
growth, the global community w ould need to get a tight grip on the pandemic by intensifying 
cooperation to make equitable and affordable access to vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics a 
key plank  of the recovery. With new COVID variants spreading rapidly all over, Members  should  
have a sense of urgency to getting control of the pandemic. The WTO c ould and should  play a more 
forceful role in exercising its monitoring function and encouraging Member s to minimi ze or remove 
export restrictions and prohibitions that hinder ed supply chains for medical goods and equipment. 
The International Trade Centre had recently reported that up to 100 countries still maintain ed export 
restrictions and prohibitions.  
1.21.   WTO Members ha d a further responsibility to reject vaccine nationalism and protectionism. 
They should rather intensify cooperation on promising new vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. 
There should be a "third way"  to broaden access through facilitating technology transfer within the 
framework of multilateral rules, so as to encourage research and innovation while at the same time 
allowing licensing agreements that would help scale up manufacturing of medical produc ts. Some WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  pharmaceutical companies were already ahead of the game because they were doing th at. 
AstraZeneca ha d licensed production in several countries, and ha d recently declared that it was 
willing to look at more such arrangements. Johnson & Johnson seem ed willing to follow suit looking 
beyond contract manufacturing to licensing agreements. The Serum Institute of India, which was 
set to manufacture up to 1 billion doses of vaccines, was a good example. Facilitating such 
arrangements w ould enable the WTO t o support the WHO ACT -Accelerator, especially the COVAX 
facility to get affordable vaccines quickly to poor countries. Looking beyond th e pandemic, the WTO 
should  be proactive in strengthening cooperation with other multilateral and bilateral partners, the  
private sector, and civil society to set a framework for dealing with problems of the global commons 
such as th e pandemic. The private sector, civil society and parliamentarians were important partners 
of the WTO with whom collaboration w ould be further n urtured going forward.  
1.22.   WTO Members agree d that the organization need ed reforms, but a lack of trust among 
Members mean t that there was less agreement on the nature of th ose reforms or their sequencing. 
To restore its credibility, the WTO should  deliver ear ly success and results. She had already expanded 
above on a key area where such results were possible, that was assistance in controlling the 
COVID -19 pandemic through the nexus of trade and public health. At MC12, the success of which 
was a top priority f or them all, Members  should reach agreement on some pressing issues and 
elaborate on work programmes for others. Apart from the issues related to the pandemic, she hoped 
that they would have finali zed the fisheries subsidies negotiations, leaving MC12 as t he venue to 
conclude on modalities for implementation. She was acutely aware that the negotiations on fisher ies 
subsidies were difficult, but Members should exercise the necessary flexibility for progress to be 
made on th at important issue. A robust agreem ent would be a win -win for trade and sustainability. 
It would signal to the world that the WTO was back, that it was capable of concluding  a multilateral 
agreement vital for current and future generations. Members w ould need to overcome their 
differences and agree on prohibiting subsidies that contribute d to illegal, unreported and unregulated 
fishing, and that facilitate d overfishing and ov ercapacity. It was time to identify appropriate landing 
zones, taking into account the interest of all Members, and the need to fully fulfil SDG 14.6. The 
WTO c ould not afford to stumble over th at. The stakes were too high, the negotiations ha d been 
going on for far too long, and every effort should  be made to conclude as soon as possible.  
1.23.   Reform of the dispute settlement system, which ha d been a central element in guaranteeing 
security and predictability of the multilateral trading system, was of utmost i mportance to the 
Membership. Some Members ha d critici zed the way it function ed and had demanded reforms. It 
would be important to agree on the nature of th ose reforms, flesh them out, and develop a work 
programme for implementation that c ould be advanced a t MC12. She believe d that the set of 
recommendations proposed by Ambassador Walker could provide Members with a platform upon 
which to build so as to restore confidence in the dispute settlement system. A strengthened and 
robust system was in the interest of all Members, and as such, every effort should be made to 
improve it. Members  needed a system that c ould garner the confidence of all, including small 
developing and least developed countries who ha d found it challenging to utili ze. 
1.24.   The WTO rule book was outdated, and its rules lag ged behind those of several regional and 
bilateral trade agreements which were incorporating a lot of innovations. The rulebook should  be 
updated to take account of 21st century realities such as e -commerce and the digital econo my. The 
pandemic ha d heightened the importance and had accelerated the role of e -commerce, which was 
expected to grow significantly in the coming years. E -commerce offer ed important opportunities for 
inclusivity of MSMEs and women in international trade, e specially in developing countries. To make 
it possible for some developing and least developed countries to participate in the e -commerce 
negotiations, Members should  partner with governments and other organizations to bridge the digital 
divide. Success in  the e-commerce negotiations could provide an impetus for reviving more broadly 
the negotiations on Trade in Services, a sector of increasing importance in the economy of most 
Members. Plurilateral initiatives ha d brought new energy in the multilateral tra ding system . 
Negotiating work on other joint statement initiatives – domestic regulation and investment 
facilitation – had continued fairly intensively despite the pandemic. Participants need ed to pursue 
their efforts to build support and attract interest from a significant part of the WTO Membership, 
including from developing countries with a view to concluding at least domestic regulation by MC12.  
1.25.   Members should also work to ensure that the WTO best support ed the green and circular 
economy and addresse d more broadly the nexus between trade and climate change. Trade and 
environmental protection c ould be mutually reinforcing, both contributing to sustainable 
development. It w ould be important for Members to reactivate and broaden the negotiations on WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  environ mental goods and services. Th at would help promote trust and encourage Members to 
explore further ways in which trade c ould contribute positively to an improved climate. Care should , 
however, be taken to ensure that any disciplines were not used arbitrarily or as a disguised restriction 
on trade, and that they t ook into account the need for developing countries to be assisted to 
transition to the use of greener and more environmental ly friendly technologies.  
1.26.   The WTO's work in new or innovative areas d id not mean that traditional topics such as 
agriculture were forgotten. Agriculture was particularly important for many developing and least 
develop ed countries. Improving market access for export products of interest to th ose countries was 
of paramount importance, as was dealing with trade distorting domestic support. The growing 
domestic support entitlements of Members should  be addressed to level the playing field, so as to 
provide opp ortunities for small scale farmers. In addition, it was possible for an early agreement on 
removal of export restrictions including favo urable consideration of the exemption of WFP 
humanitarian purchases. Likewise, Members  should  also strengthen discipline s on industrial 
subsidies. In that regard, it would be important to ensure that subsidies granted by Members to 
their state -owned enterprises in certain situations d id not distort the conditions of competition. The 
issue of special and differential treatme nt wa s a divisive one that undermine d trust. However, the 
voluntary action of some developing country Members to not avail themselves of S &DT in the future 
pointed a way forward, so d id the Trade Facilitation Agreement which had allowed for taking into 
account each Member's particular development status.  
1.27.   She then  turned to procedural reforms. Members  needed to look at how they could strengthen 
the working procedures of various WTO bodies so that they c ould better serve the Membership. 
Transparency was the lifeblood of the system and every effort should be made to assist Members to 
meet their notification and transparency obligations. The development and streamlining of online 
tools, including the introduction of E -agendas was a step in the right direction. Some WTO rules and 
procedures also need ed to be revisited, including the procedures for appointing Director s-General . 
Regarding Ministerials, Article IV of the Marrakesh Agreement provide d that "there shall be a 
Ministerial Conference  composed of represent atives of all Members which shall meet at least once 
every two years." In today's fast changing, fast paced, but uncertain world, it could  be opportune 
for Members to review the frequency of Ministerial  Conferences  to assess whether yearly meetings 
would a llow Members to better appraise the health of the multilateral trading system , surface 
problems, and together advance timely solutions. Furthermore, Members t ook decisions on the basis 
of consensus, and rightly so, since Article IX:1 of the Marrakesh Agree ment provide d that "the WTO 
shall continue the practice of decision -making by consensus followed under the GATT" but Members 
should  be vigilant that the quest for consensus d id not create situations in which welfare enhancing 
innovations or approaches of b enefit to the Membership were frustrated.  
1.28.   The WTO Secretariat should be strengthened to enable it to provide cutting edge services to 
the Membership in all relevant areas of WTO's work, including implementation, monitoring, dispute 
settlement and negotiations. An important change w ould be to move away from the current siloed 
way of working to a more team and task -based approach. The Secretariat ha d to be fit for purpose 
to take account of the changing dynamics of the global economy and priorities o f Members.  
1.29.   She conclude d by saying that the challenges facing the WTO were numerous and tricky, but 
they were not insurmountable. There was hope. There was light at the end of the tunnel if Memb ers 
worked together in a transparent manner that buil t trust,  built bridges, defuse d political tensions 
and encourage d convergence.  
1.30.   The pandemic and its economic fallout ha d highlighted the interdependence of countries, the 
importance of multilateralism, and the need to strengthen collaboration to achieve fair and balanced 
trade agreements that provide d opportunities for all WTO Members, particularly least developed 
countries and small island states. By working together, Members  could build trust, and they could 
achieve a stronger, more relevant, and inclusive tradi ng system. She was passionate about th ose 
goals. She was keen to support Members  to carry out the necessary reforms. She looked forward to 
working closely with everyone  in the coming months and years, to help build the WTO that they all 
wanted; a WTO that was about people ; a WTO that was dynamic, robust and that provide d essential 
support to economic growth and sustainable development through trade. She once again thanked 
them for the opportunity . 
1.31.   Deputy Director -General Karl Brauner, representing all DDGs , said that, on behalf of the four 
Deputy Directors -General and in the name of the WTO Secretariat, he present ed to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  Iweala  their heartfelt congratulations on her election and their warm welcome as incoming 
Director -General. They had impatie ntly been waiting for th at day. He thank ed the Troika led by the 
General Council Chair with their support team for their stamina in conducting – and successfully 
concluding – the selection process in exceptional circumstances. It was with great joy and rel ief that 
they were looking forward to welcoming her in Geneva as their new leader.  
1.32.   With the pandemic and many other impediments to communication and cooperation , they 
had gone  through a very challenging period over th ose last months. Their mandate, as DDGs, had 
not been to set a new course but to keep the ship afloat and continue to serve the Members and the 
public. She arrive d at a moment of great challenges – and great opport unities – for the WTO and its 
Members. Multilateral cooperation on trade w ould be indispensable for a strong, sustainable and job -
rich economic recovery. Th e organization provide d a common framework for governments to bridge 
geopolitical divides and define  rules that would help them tackle th at and future pandemics. As the 
threats from climate change r ose, working together on trade w ould lower the cost of decarbonizing 
their economies. He trusted that  she would help Members seize the opportunities before them. She 
could rely on the Secretariat to do its part.  
1.33.   They saw in her selection a fresh willingness of Members to engage with renewed commitment 
and purpose on reforming the WTO so that the global trading sys tem continue d to deliver for all of 
the WTO 's Members and stakeholders.  They had great expectations that , with her wealth of 
experience and her winning personality , she would inspire her staff in the Secretariat and be an 
animating force for the Members wh o were firmly in the drivers ' seat. But he noted that, as Finance 
Minister , she had managed huge budgets . As a top gun in the World Bank , she had  overseen a large 
bureaucracy. Compared to that , the WTO was an SME. In many countries , the SMEs were the 
backb one of the economy. They were agile and innovative. They stood ready to be innovative and 
agile. They would support the change that she would bring to th e organization. They would embrace 
her new ideas and support her to the best of their abilities. They wished her every success.  
1.34.   The representatives of  Nigeria; Gabon; Mauritius (African Group); the Central African 
Republic; Chad (LDCs); Switzerland; the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Arab Group); Barbados;  the 
United States; Singapore; Indonesi a; Brazil; China; Argentina; Saint Lucia (CARICOM); Israel; the 
Russian Federation; Sri Lanka; Japan; Panama (El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Dominican 
Republic); Turkey; Morocco; the European Union; Mozambique; Brunei Darussalam (ASEAN); India; 
Honduras ; Ecuador; New Zealand; Iceland; Colombia; South Africa (ACP); Mongolia (Asian Group 
of Developing Countries and LLDCs) ; Ghana; Norway; Mexico; Cambodia; the Republic of Korea; 
Jamaica; Panama (GRULAC); Tanzania; Zambia; Nepal; Chinese Taipei; Lao PDR; Vie t Nam; 
Bangladesh; Uruguay; Costa Rica; the Maldives; Burkina Faso; Hong Kong, China; Afghanistan; the 
United Kingdom; Australia; Cameroon; Vanuatu; The Gambia; Angola; the Republic of Moldova; 
Botswana; Albania; Canada; Thailand; Pakistan; Ukraine; Peru; Cuba; Malaysia; Togo; Kenya; the 
Philippines; Namibia; Zimbabwe; Oman; Côte d'Ivoire; Liechtenstein; Chile; Uganda; Tunisia; Fiji 
(Pacific Group) ; Tajikistan; Djibouti; the  Plurinational State of Bolivia; Madagascar; Mali; 
Kazakhstan; Egypt; the Kyrgyz Rep ublic; Benin; the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the Syrian 
Arab Republic (Observer)  took the floor to welcome Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala 's appointment.3 
1.35.   The General Council took note  of the statements.  
1.36.   The Chairman  once again thank ed Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala  and looked forward to welcoming 
her in Geneva soon. He also thanked  all delegations for their participation.  
1.37.   The Special Meeting of the General Council was closed . 
_______________
 
3 All the statements made are reproduced in Annex 1 to the present records.  At its request, the statement 
of the delegation of Nige r is incorporated in the minutes of this meeting and reflected in Annex 1.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  ANNEX 1  
STATEMENTS BY DELEGATIONS  
1. Nigeria  
 
Nigeria would like to start by thanking you and the two facilitators for the hard work you have done 
in respect of the process leading to the appointment of the Director -General of the World Trade 
Organisation (WTO). No doubt, the proc ess was transparent and thorough. The credit for the 
resulting success must go to the entire membership and to the T roika. 
 
Nigeria also wishes to express profound gratitude and deep appreciation to all the Members who , 
one way or the other, assisted Dr. N gozi Okonjo -Iweala during the campaign period. Thanks also 
goes to all the regional groupings in the WTO for granting audience and support during and after the 
exercise. We also thank the WTO Secretariat staff, translators and the press who worked really h ard 
in supporting and providing updates to Members and the general public on the Director -General 
selection process.  
 
We must commend all of us for being part of the history of concluding this process peacefully and 
successfully and above all, for selectin g and appointing, not only the first African, but also the first 
woman as the new Director -General of the World Trade Organi zation. There is no doubt that we all 
made the right choice by appointing Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala to lead this organization. This is  
because she is among the few on the global stage that enjoy high recognition in view of charismatic 
leadership qualities and proven records of excellence and integrity, along with international political 
connections. We believe that the new Director -Gener al will lead this organization to achieve its 
purpose and mandate.  
 
It is equally important to note and appreciate the seven other candidates who actively participated 
in the selection process. They all played significant roles, particularly in the way and  manner they 
exhibited professionalism and commitment to contribute their quota in making WTO a more effective 
organization that would improve the well -being of the global community, thus ensuring sustainable 
development and reducing poverty. The Membershi p needs to also note that most of the candidates, 
after their withdrawal, supported Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala. We therefore thank all of them for such 
magnificent sportsmanship shown to her, and in accepting and selecting her for this position. Your 
Excellen cies, as I said at the meeting of the HOD s, when the GC Chair presented the report of the  
outcome of the selection process on 28 October 2020, the new Director -General of the WTO, Dr. 
Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala will not disappoint any one of you and you will find  her as a servant -leader who 
will always listen to you and work with you to achieve a common purpose.  
 
May I take this opportunity to refresh our memories on the campaign promises made by Dr. Ngozi . 
Having clearly identified various challenges affecting th e WTO as a multilateral organization, she 
shared her thoughts on possible solutions that would be brought on board for discussion, 
consideration and implementation with a view to ensuring that the full mandates and functions of 
the WTO are enforced in acco rdance with the highest expectations of Members. She also assured 
that she would work hard, with the support of Members, to uphold the image and integrity of the 
WTO as a multilateral institution that was established to serve Members equally. Likewise, she  will 
put more effort towards mediating among Members to ensure that factors responsible for 
divergences on various negotiating issues are addressed and streamlined so that MC12 will have 
fruitful outcomes on some basic issues. As a reformer, she has undertaken to work with Members 
on the WTO reform ag enda, including the urgent need to address the impasse of the Appellate Body 
in the Dispute Settlement Body in order for the WTO to be more focused, achievement -oriented and 
acceptable to all Members. New initiatives with the support of Members will be int roduced to source 
for more funds from other multilateral financial institutions in order to assist Members in building 
their capacity to fully comply with their obligations and new trade initiatives in the WTO.  
 
Finally, we urge all Members to give the new  Director -General all the cooperation, support and 
solidarity that would be required for her to work with a view to making WTO a truly outstanding 
multilateral institution.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  2. Gabon  
 
Gabon, as the General Coordinator of the African Group in Geneva , congratula tes everyone for this 
long and delicate process leading to the appointment of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala  as Director -General 
of the WTO. This is a historic appointment. She is not only the first African to occupy this position. 
She is also the first woman. As  an African woman myself, I wish to congratulate you, 
Madame  Director -General, for the great honour that you bring upon our continent. We are very 
satisfied to be able to count on your long and in -depth knowledge of international affairs as a 
diplomat over  many decades. We will offer you our full collaboration and support throughout your 
mandate.  
 
This organization faces many challenges  and these will only be resolved in a sustainable way with 
the full and constant support of all its Members. This is why my delegation has full confidence in our 
ability to overcome our differences and to send a message to the world that the WTO is still a  relevant 
organization in a world in constant flux and change. Everyday, we have to prove that even with 
teleworking and generalized lockdown, international trade carries on.  
 
The Twelfth Session of the Ministerial Conference will be another test for the WTO Members. This is 
why we must do everything we possibly can to proceed with fisheries negotiations, resume the 
appointment of Appellate Body members and further the mandate of the multilateral trading system 
bearing in mind the great vulnerability of a great number of its Members. These vulnerabilities are 
compounded by the health crisis of the world. Despite all these problems, all of them will only be 
resolved if Members show flexibility and pragmatism.  
 
I wish to pay tribute to the Chair, Ambassador Walker, on the way in which he led this process. His 
leadership has enabled Members to reach this very happy result. I would like to reiterate my sincere 
congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala  whose abilities cannot be questioned. Her patience and 
dignity throughout the process are further guarantees to her success in discharging her new duties.  
 
3. Mauritius (African Group)  
 
On behalf of the African Group of the WTO, I start by thanking Ambassador Walker as well as 
Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for a Selection Exercise conducted with integrity, 
transparency, impartiality and diligence. We thank the Chair in parti cular for the patience he has 
displayed throughout this process. We also thank the Deputy Directors -General who have shouldered 
on the institution with high competence following the departure of Director -General Azevêdo last 
year. 
 
We remember today all th ose who have put forward their candidatures. Today, Africa no longer has 
a candidate. We have instead a Director -General for the whole Membership of the WTO. The breadth 
and depth of support which Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala carried from all levels of developm ent and from 
all geographical regions speaks volumes about the formidable person that she is and it leaves no 
doubt that Dr. Ngozi is here by merit and by merit alone.  
 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala , we address as the African Group, a daughter of the Obahai Roya l Family  
of Ogwashi -Uku would not forget – you have created history all your life but we today feel privileged 
to share this moment of history with you. It is a proud moment for us all. You are taking on the 
headship of the World Trade Organization at a di fficult time when economic recovery and healthcare 
are uppermost in our minds. But with these challenges comes the unique opportunity to build trust 
on you as a global community, to formulate rules that will unlock growth and create inclusive 
development i n line with the Marrakesh Agreement.  
 
But I will not speak more about issue because you have done that already. You will be our facilitator 
in this task of taking the institution forward and we look forward to working with you to carve the 
third way out t hat you mentioned in your own statement. The expectations from you will be very 
high. And while you may need to wear your he els at all times for there is glass everywhere. We are 
fully confide nt in your ability to deliver excellent results based on your pe rsonal history of reforming 
the unreformable. The African Group will stand with you and assures you of its support and solidarity 
as you take on your responsibilities.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  No doubt, there will be times when views do not converge. But Africa will always remain  responsive 
to all initiatives that will take this institution forward in a functional and credible manner. As I 
conclude, Dr. Ngozi, I say to you on behalf our group, we salute you, sister.  
 
4. Central African Republic  
 
As the Dean of the African Group Ambas sadors, I wish to pay tribute to all of those who took part in 
this process. I would like to thank the Chair and congratulate him for his selflessness – the way in 
which you led this process that has led to the appointment of Dr. Ngozi. As for Dr. Ngozi, n ow 
Director -General of the WTO, allow me to say how pleased and happy we are to see this appointment. 
Her election proves that Africa has human and material resources beyond belief. She will not work 
only for Africa but on behalf of all Members who have to gether elected her.  
 
The challenges that the WTO will be facing are huge – which implies reforming the organization. The 
WTO was established to stimulate economic growth, improve the standard of living by setting 
multilateral trade rules based on the principles of transparency and predictability. These rules should 
not pose barriers to some while providing advantages only to a few. All Members should abide by 
their commitments. To conclude, my words should be heard as an appeal to reforming the 
organiz ation because its survival depends on that.  
 
5. Chad (LDCs)  
 
Chad takes the floor on behalf of the LDC Group to express its deep satisfaction, on this historic day, 
to see the designation by consensus of the first woman and of the first national of the African 
continent as the WTO Director -General.  
 
We therefore extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, the new 
Director -General of the World Trade Organization.  
 
We are convinced that Dr. Ngozi's negotiating skills and her vast and lon g experience in the economic 
and trade fields, at the multilateral level, will be invaluable assets in helping Members to reach 
convergence on concrete results over the years to come and within the framework of future 
Ministerial Conferences.  
 
We would als o like to extend our congratulations to the Government of Nigeria and thank them for 
nominating Dr. Ngozi to lead the WTO.  
 
The process for the appointment of the new Director -General went smoothly, with transparency and 
inclusiveness. In this regard, the LDC Group renews its congratulations and thanks to the Chairman 
of the General Council, Ambassador David Walker, as well as to the Chairs of the Dispute Settlement 
Body and Trade Policy Review Body, Ambassador Dacio Castillo and Ambassador Harald Aspelund.  
 
Finally, we congratulate the staff of the WTO Secretariat and its four Deputy Directors -General, for 
ensuring the good continuity of support to Members  particularly during the interim period after the 
departure of  former Director -General  Azevêdo  and with in a difficult  context caused by the  pandemic 
that challenged our traditional way of working.  
 
The WTO therefore has a leadership role to play in prop erly support ing its Members in their 
negotiations.  
 
The LDC Group has many expectations, including domesti c support in agriculture, cotton, fisheries 
subsidies, special and differential treatment, technology transfer, accession s, maintenance of 
flexibilities in the event of graduation from  the LDC C ategory  and strengthening of human and 
institutional capacitie s, among others.  
 
The LDC Group look ed forward to being able to work closely with the Director -General , Dr. Ngozi. 
We renew our congratulations to h er and assure h er of our full support in h er mission to foster a fair, 
transparent and inclusive multilatera l trading system.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  6. Switzerland  
 
I would like to congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala  on her appointment as Director -General of the 
WTO.  
 
In addition, Switzerland thanks the members of the Troika for the remarkable work they have done 
in full transparency.  
 
As a host country of the WTO and a fervent defender of multilateralism, Switzerland has always 
worked to ensure the effective functioning of the WTO. In these difficult times, our organization, now 
more than ever, needs a Director -General to  enable it to meet the challenges it faces, overcome 
disagreements among Members and move forward on the path of WTO reform.  
 
Mitigating the effects of the pandemic crisis and reviving the economy are huge challenges. These 
challenges cannot be met without  enhanced international cooperation, including within the WTO.  
 
Renewed and increased engagement of all WTO Members will be essential to finding sustainable and 
mutually beneficial solutions that meet the needs of businesses and citizens. The swift conclus ion of 
the negotiations on fisheries subsidies is the most pressing priority. But we also need to work to 
modernize WTO rules to take into account contemporary challenges in terms of technology, health, 
environmental sustainability and competitive conditio ns. It is also important that the dispute 
settlement system be fully operational again.  
 
Director -General , we are aware that this is an ambitious project and that its realization depends on 
the willingness of Members to cooperate constructively and to comp romise. Your mediation and your 
initiatives will obviously be required and we hope you will get to work as soon as possible. I want to 
assure you of Switzerland's constructive  cooperation and support.  
 
We wish Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala every success in her new functions.  
 
7. Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (Arab Group)  
 
On behalf of the Arab Group, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia would like to warmly congratulate 
Dr. Ngozi in her appointment as the new Director -General of the WTO – and thank her for her 
insightful and encou raging statement. The Arab Group is confident that your deep and diverse 
experience will ensure a proper and smooth functioning of the organization at this challenging time. 
The Arab Group has no doubt that under your inspiration and leadership, the WTO wi ll address the 
main opportunities and challenges facing today's multilateral trading system and find a way to 
successfully resolve all outstanding issues in the WTO.  
 
The Arab Group attaches great importance to the speeding up of the accession process of acceding 
countries, nine of which are Arab countries – and to ensuring equal representation in the Secretariat 
that reflects the diversity of the entire Membership regardless of race, colour, gender and religion. 
The Arab Group also would like t o thank the four Deputy Directors -General for their tireless efforts 
in steering the work of the WTO during the last months due to the absence of the former 
Director -General. Finally,  Dr. Ngozi,  the Arab Group wishes you every success and look forward to 
working closely with you to support the multilateral trading system and to ensure that international 
trade plays a crucial role in fighting the pandemic and driving a resilient global recovery.  
 
8. Barbados  
 
At the outset, Barbados wishes to align itself with the statements to be made by the delegations of 
Saint Lucia and Jamaica on behalf of the CARICOM and the ACP Groups, respectively.  
 
Barbados is certainly delighted to be in a position to join the consens us to appoint 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala as the next WTO Director -General effective March 2021. In this regard, 
Barbados thanks the Chair and the Facilitators for their utmost professionalism, integrity and 
transparency throughout the appointment process.  
 
On behalf of the Government of Barbados, I wish to extend heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Ngozi on 
her appointment and welcome her to the WTO. Her stellar record as a leader as well as her vision, 
experience, professionalism and passion for trade is needed  perhaps now more than any other time WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 11 - 
 
  in our history, and certainly the organization's history, particularly in light of the numerous threats 
to multilateralism and the uncertain and unprecedented global economic environment emanated 
from COVID -19. 
 
We wou ld also wish to recognize that the other seven candidates were extremely talented and we 
thank their governments for putting them forward. We are certain that all Members would agree 
with me saying that we have had eight highly qualified candidates who thr oughout the appointment 
process demonstrated their regard for and commitment to the multilateral trading system and their 
conviction for the operation of rules and procedures of the WTO.  
 
Over the last year, we have been operating within the context of a n ew and more perfectly poised 
altered reality. We have had to learn to adapt and manoeuvre  in a way in which we work and a way 
in which we relate to each other. We would therefore wish to acknowledge the strong leadership of 
the Deputy Directors -General in filling the void and guiding us through this new reality since August. 
We are pleased to be a part of this historic moment where we can welcome the first female as well 
as the first WTO Director -General from the African continent.  
 
Barbados looks forward to working with the new Director -General on issues of core importance to 
the WTO particularly as these intersect with trade and development issues related to UNCTAD and 
its fifteenth session – UNCTAD 15. Barbados wishes Dr. Ngozi its full support and commi tment and 
wishes her the very best and success in her tenure as the WTO's Director -General.  
 
9. United States  
 
On behalf of the United States, it is my pleasure to warmly welcome and congratulate the first woman 
and the first African Director -General of the WTO, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala.  
 
Dr. Okonjo -Iweala has promised that under her leadership it will not be business as usual for the 
WTO, and we are excited and confident that she has the skills necessary to make good on this 
promise. Her wealth  of knowledge and experience in critical pillars of economics, trade, and 
diplomacy will bring a welcome boost to the efforts underway to reform and revitalize the WTO. 
Indeed, it will require a masterful blend of all these skills to navigate 164 Members t o consensus.  
 
The United States is eager to work with Dr. Okonjo -Iweala to ensure this institution lives up to its 
full potential as a body that promotes equitable economic growth through trade, and supports our 
common efforts to meet current and future gl obal challenges.  
 
We also look to her extensive experience in organizational management and leadership to continue 
to support the modernization of the organization, and we ask her to care for and look after the highly 
skilled and dedicated Secretariat staf f that WTO Members rely so heavily upon to carry out our work 
and achieve our goals.  
 
The United States is committed to working closely with Director -General Okonjo -Iweala and she can 
count on the United States to be a constructive partner.  
 
The United States would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank Ambassador 
Walker, Ambassador Castillo, and Ambassador Aspelund for all of their hard work and efforts to 
successfully manage the selection process that brought us here tod ay for this historic conclusion.  
 
And we also extend our appreciation to Deputy Director -General Agah, Deputy 
Director -General  Brauner, Deputy Director -General Yi, and Deputy Director -General Wolff for their 
continued dedication to managing the organizatio n during this extended period.  
 
10. Singapore  
 
At the outset, Singapore associates itself with the ASEAN statement which will be delivered by Brunei 
as the ASEAN Chair.  
 
In the interest of time, I will just make three brief points. First, Singapore warmly cong ratulates 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment as the next Director -General of the WTO.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  Second, Singapore wants to assure Dr. Ngozi of our firm commitment to support and work closely 
with her to strengthen and reform the WTO and ensure its relevanc e in the global fight against the 
COVID -19 pandemic. As a small trade -dependent country, Singapore is fully committed to upholding 
and strengthening the rules based multilateral trading system.  
 
Third, Singapore is confident that with her extensive experie nce in government and the World Bank, 
Dr. Ngozi will engage all stakeholders effectively and build consensus on issues that have divided 
the WTO Membership. The WTO is facing many challenges but as Dr. Ngozi had said in her book, 
"Reforming the Unreformabl e", "Great challenges present great opportunities." We hope that all WTO 
Members will seize these opportunities and work together with Dr. Ngozi to ensure that the WTO is 
fit for purpose in the post pandemic world.  
 
11. Indonesia  
 
Let me begin by joining others to congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the new Director -General 
of the World Trade Organization. Indonesia extends its support and looks forward to working closely 
with you, Dr. Ngozi. At the same time, we would also like  to congratulate Minister Yoo Myung -hee 
of the Republic of Korea for her candidacy and meaningful contribution during this inclusive selection 
process.  
 
Special appreciation also goes to Ambassador Walker, the Chair of the General Council; 
Ambassador  Aspelund, the TPRB Chair; and, Ambassador Castillo, the DSB Chair. This appointment 
process has been quite challenging for everyone and your tireless effort has led us into this historic 
moment today.  
 
Dr. Ngoz i is the first woman to lead the WTO and the firs t Director -General from Africa. We hope 
that this election will not only just be another historic first for the WTO but will represent a new 
momentum for the organization in moving forward.  
 
Indonesia places high hope s on Dr. Ngozi's leadership . With her competence and experience, the 
WTO will be in good hands to address many of its current challenges including to accomplish the 
remaining Doha Development Agenda, narrow trust deficit and achiev e global trade recovery.  
 
Furthe rmore, as the COVID -19 pandemic poses serious challenge s to international trade and 
economy, the WTO's ability to contribute to the global health recovery is known as our interest. 
Dr. Ngozi, under your leadership, we are optimistic that significant progre ss could be made in 
addressing these existential challenges.  
 
12. Brazil  
 
Brazil congratulates you, Madame Director -General, on th is historical win. You are the first woman 
to head this organization and the first person from the African continent. Just as 
Amba ssador  Azevêdo, you have both political ability and technical capacity – a rare combination of 
skills which should be essential to deal with the challenges we face. We look forward to working with 
you to promote a free, fair, prosperous and dynamic interna tional trading system.  
 
Brazil believes that under her leadership, the WTO will go ahead with the reform in its three pillars: 
negotiations, dispute settlement and transparency – with a view to promoting the efficiency of the 
organization. One of the grea t challenges is excess capacity, unfair competitive conditions and 
distortion of international trade relations including subsidies across all sectors.  
 
The WTO needs an ambitious and realistic package for MC12 with clear deliverables in agriculture 
both on domestic support and SPS; new rules for sustainability in agriculture trade; a permanent 
solution to the Appellate Body impasse; the conclusion of fish eries negotiations with high ambition 
in sustainability; results in investment facilitation, services domestic regulation and e -commerce and 
new flexible geometry for the plurilaterals at the WTO.  
 
13. China  
 
Let me join others in congratulating Dr. Ngozi for her appointment as the next Director -General of 
the WTO. It is truly applaudable that we now have the first female and African leader for the 
organization in history.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 13 - 
 
  This appointment is significantly timely, when the WTO is at its critical moment and must  be able to 
deliver soon. The collective decision made by the entire membership demonstrates a vote of trust 
not only in Dr. Ngozi herself, but also in our vision, our expectation and the multilateral trading 
system that we all believe and preserve.  
 
There  is one sentence in Dr. Ngozi’s latest article: Trade in the Time of Pandemics, stating, "If the 
right hand washes the left, and the left hand washes the right, then both become clean. " I cannot 
agree more. As a contributor and beneficiary of a stable, non -discriminatory and rules -based 
multilateral trading system, China does believe trade, mutually -advantageous trade, will be a key 
tool that can help us to find a way out of the current situation and realize economic recovery soon.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, just now , you made an encouraging statement. We , the Members , have high hopes on 
you for the months and years to come, and pressingly, we expect you to help deliver outcomes by 
securing a successful MC12. In this regard, you can count on the full support from China and  myself. 
Congratulations again . 
 
Chair, please allow me to commend you and your two co -facilitators, Ambassador Dacio Castillo of 
Honduras and Ambassador Harald Aspelund of Iceland, for your tireless, professional and transparent 
work. When Ambassador Walk er informed Members the appointment process on 20 May last year, 
nobody could ever envisage a nearly -9-month process until today. Big thanks to all you three.  
 
Before conclud ing, I would also like to pay tribute to four DDGs, Yonov, Karl, Alan and Xiaozhun, as 
well as DGO especially Tim Yeend. We appreciate the hard work and great contribution of all of you 
to this organization.  
 
14. Argentina  
 
The Argentine Republic welcome s the fac t that the WTO has filled the seat for Director -General. We 
are delighted that although this has been delayed, this has been carried out according to the rules 
agreed among Members and will service a great stimulus for starting the year. It will resolve a 
pending issue in a consensual way and is a strong signal – capitalizing on the fact that the highest 
post in the Secretariat has been for the very first time been assigned to a woman and to an African.  
Argentina looks forward to working with the new Director -General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, on a 
well-balanced agenda which will allow us to eliminate the way forward towards a successful MC12.  
 
15. Saint Lucia (CARICOM)  
 
This statement is delivered on behalf of the CARICOM Group. The CARICOM Group aligns itself with 
the statement to be delivered by Jamaica on behalf of the ACP Group and joins with other Members 
to congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment as Director -General of the WTO.  
 
The CAR ICOM Group would like to thank you, Chair, and the Troika for your good stewardship and 
steady hands throughout this process culminating in today's most welcomed development. It is 
indeed a bright spot for the WTO and a fitting start to the new year in the  multilateral trading system. 
We pledge our collective efforts and commitment to use the multilateral system to help address the 
economic trade impacts of the pandemic.  
 
The CARICOM Group would further like to express its appreciation to the Government of Nigeria for 
advancing Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala's nomination. A timely appointment also marks the dual firsts of 
being the first woman and first African to lead this august body. Her vast experience in the  global 
political  and economic domains coupled with h er demonstrated commitment to finding solutions to 
some of the key development challenges of our time will serve her and the institution well.  
 
Today's appointment of the new Director -General also bears particular significance to the CARICOM 
Group. Dr. Ng ozi Okonjo -Iweala has a longstanding relationship with the Caribbean Community and 
is regarded as a friend of CARICOM. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala has generously lent her considerable 
experience and support to our region through her leadership role on the CARI COM Commission on 
the Economy.  
 
In closing, the CARICOM Group reaffirms its strong commitment to the multilateral trading system 
and looks forward to working with the new Director -General and her team.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  16. Israel  
 
Israel warmly welcomes Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala from Nigeria as the new Director -General of the 
WTO. Dr. Ngozi will be the first woman and first African to head the WTO and this is indeed a historic 
moment. We trust that under her able leadership, the WTO will resume its central role in the 
multilate ral trading system and will meet the high expectations of the global business and consumer 
communities. Israel looks forward to working closely with Dr. Ngozi and her team as well as with 
WTO Members in a joint effort to find solutions to the many challeng es the WTO is currently facing.  
In this sense, it is an encouraging signal that Members bridged the gap and reached a consensus 
based decision on the new Director -General's appointment. This is an important message to the 
world that is watching us.  
 
As this is the end of a long selection process, I also wish to thank all of the highly qualified candidates 
and Members that proposed them thereby ensuring a highly competitive process. Our thanks go to 
Mexico, Egypt, the Republic of Moldova, the Republic of Ko rea, Kenya, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 
and the United Kingdom. I would also like to express our gratitude and appreciation to the four DDGs 
for jointly leading the organization during the recent extended period. We would like to wish 
Dr. Ngozi every succe ss in her tenure as the Director -General of the WTO. Your success is our 
success.  
 
17. Russian Federation  
 
On behalf of the Russian delegation, allow me to express our satisfaction with the successful 
resolution of the appointment process of the new WTO Director -General. We hope that this important 
milestone opens a new page in the history of the organization a nd paves the way for revitalization 
of its work on all fronts.  
 
I extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on being selected by the 
Membership to become the Director -General of the WTO. Russia welcomes the consensus that 
formed around your candidacy, Dr. Ngozi, not just as the first female and the first African on this 
position, but, first of all, as a professional economist with outstanding qualifications and decades of 
multilateral experience, proven ability to broker compromises, and  leadership skills. All this is indeed 
required here in the WTO to advance negotiations and to restore the viability of the dispute 
settlement mechanism. You join us in quite uneasy times, faced by unprecedented challenges and 
imposing urgency of necessary  reforms, breakthrough in the ongoing negotiations, as well as 
preparations for the upcoming Twelfth  Ministerial Conference towards the end of the year. Russia 
looks forward to working together with you on these and other issues as a systemically thinking WTO 
Member, earnestly dedicated to strengthening the multilateral trading system.  
 
I would also like to pay tribute to all other seven candidates, who participated in this gruelling and 
intense DG selection race. We value their involvement, dignified condu ct and the respect they 
demonstrated to our esteemed institution and to each other. All of them clearly had the best interest 
of the organization at heart, which is especially evident in the case of H.E. Minister Yoo Myung -hee 
who graciously withdr ew her bid in order to curtail the prolonged leadership struggle.  
 
The added benefit of the DG selection process was to allow the candidates to share their unbiased 
and sometimes novel visions for the future of the WTO. I am convinced that this excellent 
brainsto rming exercise was not in vain and will inspire the WTO Membership to build upon it by 
further improving the organization 's work. We wish all the candidates every success in their future 
endeavours.  
 
My thanks also go to the four deputy Directors -General – Yonov Agah, Karl Brauner, Alan Wolff and 
Yi Xiaozhun – who have been bearing the weight of overseeing the functioning of the WTO diligently 
and skilfully during recent months, ensuring the continuity of leadership in the organization. 
Gentlemen, now is th e time for you to breathe out a sigh of relief, although we continue to count on 
your valuable support, efforts and contributions.  
 
Finally, I would like commend the impeccable work done by the Troika of facilitators under your 
guidance, Chair, and express  admiration for the transparent, impartial and fair manner in which you 
steered the DG selection process through the troubled waters and unforeseen challenges.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  18. Sri Lanka  
 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala and Excellencies and distinguished delegates,  
 
Today is a ve ry special day to the entire Membership, a day which we have eagerly and patiently 
waited for, in order to witness the endorsement of  the final results of a fair and transparent selection 
process and formally elect the first ever female and also who repre sents the African region as head 
of the of this prestig ious organization.  
 
The WTO has been fortunate to have a very strong candidate of the calibr e of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -
Iweala for securing the breadth of support from the WTO Members and finally elected as the Director -
General of the WTO. We are very pleased as we finally have a leader to lead this very important 
organization. Please accept our heartfelt congratulations o n your selection.  
  
Sri Lanka pays tribute to all eight of the candidates and in particular to Madam e Yoo Myung -hee of 
the Republic of Korea who had advanced to the third round in the process and also by following the 
usual practice has accepted the decisi on of the Member s. Sri Lanka appreciates the decision of 
Minister Yoo for accepting the WTO Members ' final choice and paving the way for Dr.  Ngozi to be 
formally elected as the successful and consensual candidate.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, with your expertise, experience and professional career track record, we have no doubt 
that you will be discharging your responsibilities with much respect and dignity w hile commanding 
this institution fairly and constructively.  
 
Dr. Okonjo -Iweala , with your service as Minister of Finance twice for Nigeria and with you twenty -
five year experience at the World Bank, background in development economics, and service as Chai r 
of GAVI brings a wealth of experience at high levels of government and multilateral organizations.  
 
While we are assuring Sri Lanka' s fullest support to you, I wish you all the very best and may your 
tenure be fruitful and successful in all spheres.  
 
In conclusion, my delegation wishes to extend its tributes to your , Chair, and the Troika for 
conducting the selection process successfully leading up to this final result.  
 
19. Japan  
 
On behalf of the Japanese Government, I express our sincere congratulations on your appointment 
as the Director -General of the WTO. We are truly pleased with your appointment which enriches the 
WTO's diversity and universality and enables the organization to fulfil its mission under the current 
challenging circumstances. Japan is confident that you will exercise strong leadership by bringing in 
a breath of fresh air based on your abundant experience in the political, economic and international 
arena and actively push forward with the WTO Reform. Japan is fully committed to closely working 
with you to accomplish this historic endeavour.  
 
20. Panama (El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and Dominican Republic)  
 
I speak on behalf o f El Salvador, Honduras, Panama and the Dominica n Republic. We would like to 
associate ourselves with the statement to be made by GRULAC.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, we would like to extend the warmest welcome to you and congratulate you for the 
consensus that is being expressed now by Members confirming you as Director -General of the 
organization. Today's decision is unprecedented as you will indeed be the first woman and the 
representative of the African continent to occupy this position. It is also worth pointing out that this 
appointment reflects the unanimous positi on of the Membership that you are the ideal person to 
occupy this post at this juncture.  
 
You are facing a difficult but very interesting road ahead in the preparation of MC12 and also in 
launching the reform programme for the WTO. We are confident in your  ability to steer the WTO and 
to help it prepare itself to face these unexpected and great challenges that the WTO has to face. We 
will cooperate with you and will support you in every part of the duties you will be discharging.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 16 - 
 
  We likewise appreciate th e balanced and transparent approach of the Troika in carrying out the 
appointment process. The procedures were followed at every turn. Dr. Ngozi, we welcome you and 
you will be receiving all the support of all Members. We will all be ready to be on deck to  help out.  
 
21. Turkey  
 
Turkey thanks you, Chair, for your tireless efforts during the selection process. In a remarkable, 
transparent  and inclusive manner and in full compliance with the procedures, you steered the entire 
Membership through turbulent weather. I would like to congratulate and welcome 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala as the new Director -General of the WTO. We are confident that 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala will make a difference in this organization with her background, approach 
and experience and strong leadership capacity, with a smooth and enlightening touch of a woman's 
hand. We are sure she will open a blank page for the future of this organization. But we, as the 
Members, must assist her in the very best way we can. It is high time to have a fresh start. We 
should come together to create a working environment based on more cooperation, respect, trust 
and empathy.  
 
22. Morocco  
 
First, I  am pleased to extend my sincere and warm congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, first 
woman and first African to be the new Director -General of the WTO. As she is joining this organization 
at a critical time with MC12 around the corner and the Member s do not have a lot of time at their 
disposal to develop consensus at the outcome of the Ministerial Conference, I would like to assure 
her once again of the full support for her work leading up to MC12 and beyond. Dr. Ngozi, Morocco 
is delighted to see yo u at the head of the WTO and would like to wish you the very best in fulfilling 
the important functions entrusted to you at this critical time for the interest of WTO Members and 
the multilateral trading system itself as a whole.  
 
Morocco is pleased that f or the first time, the WTO will be led by an African woman from a developing 
country. This is a great source of satisfaction for developing countries in general and African countries 
in particular. I would also like to point out that the circumstances whic h preceded over your 
appointment can bolster your new mission and provide the support needed to give momentum to 
the ongoing negotiations in anticipation of the next Ministerial Conference. Your catalytic role and 
rallying power will be crucial in making s ure that the months remaining before MC12 are put to good 
use in order to ensure a successful conference for the WTO and a good start for the Director -General.  
 
With these in mind, I would like to present on this ceremonious occasion the following priorit ies of 
Morocco. Morocco remains fully committed to the multilateral trading system because it is the only 
system allowing everyone regardless of size or power to participate in the development of trade rules 
and to ensure their enforcement. This is why Mor occo hopes that the WTO will develop an ambitious 
roadmap and live up to the challenges of world trade. One of the new Director -General's lines of 
action should be to defend and promote the multilateral negotiating system in order to halt the 
position of t he WTO that has ensued from the proliferation of plurilateral agreements. The DDA 
should remain at the heart of the WTO mandate and clear commitment to the development 
dimension should be reflected in the future strategy as Director -General of the WTO.  
 
The first mission of the new WTO Director -General should be to ensure the successful outcome of 
the next Ministerial Conference with a balanced and satisfactory package for all Members. Regarding 
the current complications due to the pandemic, we are eviden tly at a critical juncture and need to 
set up considerably in our negotiations in order to achieve a positive and meaningful outcome. 
Morocco is committed to doing its utmost to ensure a balanced package at MC12 on the different 
issues on the table of nego tiations especially fisheries subsidies, agriculture, investment facilitation 
and environment. The negotiating process should be able to operate more intensively and effectively 
while at the same time ensuring under the leadership of the Chair of Negotiati ng Groups, adherence 
to the principles of multilateralism, inclusiveness and transparency.  
 
To conclude, I would like to express Morocco's commitment to being ready and determined partner 
to help you, dear Dr. Ngozi, in your mission, and to doing everythin g possible to enable the WTO to 
regain its strength and to enhance its credibility. Morocco and other WTO Members have an obligation 
to succeed. The future of our organization which was created in the city of Marrakesh in my own 
country – its future is at stake and we all know that you, Dr. Ngozi, have an ambitious plan for this 
future, a plan we also share and will strongly support.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  23. European Union  
 
The European Union wishes to warmly congratulate Dr. Okonjo -Iweala for her appointment as the 
next WTO Direc tor-General - the first female and African national to head the organization.  
 
The EU would also like to thank you , Chair, as well as the Chair men of the Dispute Settlement Body 
and of the Trade Policy Review Body, Ambassadors Castillo and Aspelund, for yo ur patience and 
dedication in supporting the Membership in successfully completing this difficult selection process.  
 
Our words of thank s also go to the four Deputy Directors -General – DDG Agah , Brauner, Yi and Wolff 
- for competently steering this organization since September last year.  
 
Today is a good day for the WTO. We have been waiting for this day since the Chair announced the 
result of the selection process on 28 October last  year – and good things come to those who wait.  
 
Today also marks a new beginning and gives us all the opportunity to refocus our energy on the 
urgent and challenging tasks ahead. We have negotiations to conclude, bridges to rebuild, new 
challenges to tackle and refo rms to pursue.  
 
Dr. Okonjo -Iweala, the Members cannot achieve these tasks without your able and effective 
leadership. The EU is fully confident that this is what we can expect from you.  
 
We offer you our full support and look forward to develop fruitful cooperation, based on trust and 
openness.  
 
Our warmest welcome to you , Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala.  
 
24. Mozambique  
 
On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Mozambique, I am honoured to address, on the 
occasion of the appointment  and inaugural session of t he new Director -General of the World Trade 
Organization, H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala.  
 
Madame  Director -General, we are taking the floor to express my Government 's appreciation for your 
appointment as D irector -General  of this organization, and, allow me to highlight your outstanding 
qualities for the post as an expression of a vision, representative of all geographical regions of the 
world and countries at different levels of development.  
 
My Government is glad to realize that your outstanding victory and  your unanimous selection 
confirmed the assessment, and means a victory of the entire WTO Membership to which, we 
celebrate the opportunity to see a fellow African and the first woman achieving such a target.  
 
We followed with keen interest your presentati on outlining the priorities of your mandate for which 
we are happy to notice that it reflects the main tenets of your vision made known during your 
campaign which symbolizes the search for new approaches and better serving of the  trade 
community and trade -related issues in this organization.  
 
In going through current times of uncertainties, pragmatic leadership deems necessary. At this 
critical junction not only to the WTO, but also to the global community due to internal and external 
challenges caused by  the global health crisis  brought about by COV ID-19, we are optimistic that 
your leadership, in conjunction with the willingness of the WTO Members will lead the WTO and the 
multilateral trading system to a promising path . To conclude, Excellencies, on behal f of the 
Government of Mozambique we wish you, Director -General all the successes in your future 
endeavour.  
 
25. Brunei Darussalam (ASEAN)  
 
Brunei Darussalam delivers this statement on behalf of ASEAN. ASEAN warmly welcomes the 
appointment of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the next Director -General of the WTO and congratulates 
her. Dr. Ngozi is well qualified and will bring with her the extensive experience she has gained from 
her years as Managing Director of the World Bank, the strong leadership she has shown as the WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 18 - 
 
  Minister of Finance of Nigeria as well as the knowledge and understanding of the current pandemic 
from her role as Chair of GAVI.  
 
As others have said before, this is a milestone as it marks the first time since its establishment in 
1995 that the WTO has welcomed a female Director -General. And to top it all off, this is also the first 
time that the WTO has elected a Director -General f rom the African region. We also like to recognize 
the candidature of Minister Yoo of the Republic of Korea who has also contributed to making history 
as one of the top two female finalists for the DG Selection Process. We also like to express our 
appreciat ion to all the other candidates for having participated and thus contributed to strengthening 
the multilateral trading system.  
 
ASEAN commends the four Deputy Directors -General who have discharged their duties so ably these 
past months in such challenging  times. Without them and the hard work of all the Secretariat staff, 
we would not have been able to make progress in so many areas – be it the review and monitoring 
of Members' policies, the continuation of the process of accessions of new countries, ongoi ng 
negotiations and targeted deliverables for MC12 as well as the day to day running of the WTO and 
ensuring we can continue to meet under these exceptional circumstances. So thank  you DDG Agah, 
DDG Brauner, DDG Wolff and DDG Yi.  
 
ASEAN expresses its appr eciation to Ambassador Walker, Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador 
Aspelund for facilitating this entire complex process in a systematic, expeditious, transparent and 
inclusive manner. ASEAN Member States reaffirm our full support for the open, inclusive, 
transparent, non -discriminatory and rules -based multilateral trading system embodied by the WTO 
and we look forward to working with Dr. Ngozi ably assisted by the Secretariat and with all other 
WTO Members particularly as we continue to work on our multifac eted agenda in the WTO and move 
forward towards MC12.  
 
26. India  
 
India would like to thank you Chair for convening this Special General Council Meeting on the 
appointment of the next Director -General.  
 
India is delighted to join the rest of the WTO Membership in endorsing the recommendation of the 
Troika to appoint Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala of Nigeria as the next WTO Director -General.  
 
In this regard, we also thank Minister Yoo for her very gracious and po sitive campaign during the 
selection process. We wish her the best in her future endeavo urs.   
 
I take this opportunity to congratulate Dr. Ngozi for her successful campaign. Dr. Ngozi 's selection 
is historic, not only as she is the first African, but also  as the first woman to head the organization. 
On behalf of my country, I also wish to congratulate the people of Nigeria and Africa on her success. 
India enjoys deep ties with the African continent and we are extremely delighted to share this joy 
with our brothers and sisters from Africa.  
 
WTO is at a critical crossroad today and Dr. Ngozi 's leadership of the organization will be more critical 
than ever. In this regard, it is heartening to note that the next D irector -General  enjoys wide support 
of the Membe rship and we hope that with her vast experience including in the field of development 
economics, Dr. Ngozi will be able to provide the leadership that the WTO needs today  especially 
since trade is essentially a means to achieve development and all -round ec onomic prosperity.  
 
Mahatma Gandhi, who began his civil rights movement while in Africa, had given us a talisman which 
I am sure that Dr. Ngozi is aware of, he had suggested a test when in doubt while taking a decision. 
We encourage Dr. Ngozi to apply this  test whenever in doubt and be guided by the need for 
promoting the welfare of world 's vast population of the poor and the vulnerable. We hope that under 
her leadership the outcomes that the WTO delivers will improve their lives. India looks forward to 
closely working with Dr. Ngozi towards this end.  
 
Finally, I would be failing in my duty if I did not thank you and the other distinguished members of 
the Troika, Ambassador Dacio Castillo and Ambassador Harald  Aspelund  for conducting the DG 
selection process in a fair, independent and transparent manner.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  The last four months of patience ha ve re-emphasized this belief that if you refuse to accept anything 
but the best, you very often get it.  
 
I thank you Chair, once again congratulations to Director -General Dr. Ngozi and "Namaste " from 
India.  
 
27. Honduras  
 
We echo the statement to be made by Jamaica on behalf of GRULAC and that made by Panama. 
Honduras welcomes the fact that we are re -writing history today. After 26 years since the 
establishment of the WTO, we are electing a woman as our Director -General. Th ere is no doubt that 
the organization is facing many complex challenges today but we are sure that under your leadership, 
Dr. Ngozi, that the WTO will once again enjoy the relevance it deserves. Now more than ever, the 
world needs a WTO that is renewed, st rengthened and united, reaffirming the fundamental values 
which led to its creation. Dr. Ngozi, you can enjoy Honduras' full support in your work. You can count 
on us and we also take the opportunity to thank Ambassador Walker for his leadership in this pr ocess.  
 
28. Ecuador  
 
Ecuador associates with the statement to be made on behalf of GRULAC. On behalf of Ecuador, we 
welcome the consensus that has been achieved with regard to the appointment of an expert in global 
trade who has the professional trajectory tha t is outstanding. This is a historic achievement. Not only 
is she the first woman to occupy this post but is also the first African. The appointment of 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala comes at a very important time for multilateralism in general and the WTO 
in par ticular. Her capacity for leadership and her experience will be crucial in strengthening the role 
of the WTO in reactivating international trade and reactivating the global economy post COVID -19, 
in particular, addressing the situation of developing and LD C Members who are among those most 
affected in socio -economic terms by the pandemic.  
 
The proactiveness of the new Director -General will contribute to the ongoing negotiating dynamic of 
the WTO which will lead to success at MC12. Concerning important topic s that await positive progress 
at the Ministerial Conference, these include fisheries subsidies, agriculture, e -commerce, MSMEs and 
investment facilitation. With the same spirit, we trust that the Director -General will participate in 
making progress in ter ms of discussions on sustainable development and on topics such as plastics 
and gender, among others that appear on our agenda. The new Director -General has Ecuador's full 
support. We trust in her leadership and we wish her every success in her work. Welco me and good 
luck in the years to come, Madame Director -General.  
 
29. New Zealand  
 
New Zealand joins the loud chorus of WTO Members in extending a warm welcome and 
congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala today. We also thank WTO Members, the General Council 
Chair and Facilitators for your efforts to find consensus around the appointment today. Dr. Ngozi, 
your appointment comes at a critical time for our organization. Faced with current COVID -19 
challenges, we must ensure that the WTO remains effective and con tinues to deliver for all Members 
on its core role as a platform for liberalization of global trade and defending against protectionism. 
New Zealand looks forward to working with you to deliver progress on the range of significant issues 
we face here as WT O Members across the negotiation, dispute settlement and monitoring functions. 
As the APEC host this year, we will also be looking at how APEC can support and sustain the WTO 
given the importance of the multilateral trading system in our region.  
 
30. Iceland  
 
It is an honour to warmly congratulate you, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, on your appointment as the 
new Director -General to the WTO. Personally, I am grateful and honoured for serving as one of the 
Facilitators of the Selection Process and I thank you , Chair, for your strong leadership.  I wish to 
thank you, Madame Director -General, for your encouraging words. Iceland firmly believes in the 
important role that the WTO plays in the international architecture. It is important and a strong 
message that a woman and an African takes on this position for the first time. Iceland has taken an 
active role in bringing gender issues to the WTO agenda. Last year, a group of WTO Members agreed 
to establish an Informal Working Group on Trade and Gender to deepen the discussion  and the 
participation on women and trade.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  These are challenging times, the impact of COVID -19 is still unfolding and how to predict when we 
will return to normal or what the new normal will be. In these times, it is important to keep in mind 
that the WTO  fundamental principles of non -discrimination, freer trade and predictability. The WTO 
must strive to stay relevant and therefore Iceland welcomes a new, strong leader for the WTO. 
Madame Director -General, we wish you every success and we look forward to f ruitful cooperation.  
 
31. Colombia  
 
Colombia echoes the statement to be delivered by GRULAC.  
 
Allow me to start by thanking the Chair, and Ambassadors Castillo and Aspelund  for the hard work 
that they have put into the selection of our new Director -General.  
 
It is with great pleasure and excitement that Colombia congratulates and welcomes 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala as Director -General of the WTO. We are confident that her expe rience, her 
positive energy and genuine interest in having a successful multilateral trading system will greatly 
benefit this organization and will help us, Members, deliver on the tasks that we have in front of us.  
 
Dr. Okonjo -Iweala, we wish you the best  of success in this big responsibility that will now fall on 
your shoulders. You can count on Colombia's support at any time. We are looking forward and are 
eager to working with you soon.  
 
In closing, allow me to chip in with my fisheries negotiations' h at – just to say that it is a very good 
omen that today's meeting and great news took place at the start of this week's cluster of meetings 
of the fisheries subsidies negotiations. I take this coincidence as a positive signal.  
 
Director -General, we have a  lot of work to do. I look forward to working closely with you soon.  
 
32. South Africa (ACP)  
 
I am making this statement on behalf of Jamaica and the ACP. The ACP Group congratulates 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment as Director -General of the WTO. We  thank Dr. Ngozi 
for taking up this mantle. The ACP Group conveys special thanks to the Government of Nigeria for 
submitting her nomination and for that country's efforts in ensuring Dr. Ngozi's appointment.  
 
The ACP Group takes this opportunity to commend you, Chair, and the Chairs of the DSB and TPRB, 
for the diligence, confidentiality, integrity and professionalism that characterize the selection 
process. Since Ambassador Azevêdo terminated office on 31 Augu st 2020, the WTO Secretariat has 
stayed the course and continued its tradition of effective and efficient service to Members. For this, 
the ACP Group wishes to thank the staff of the Secretariat and particularly acknowledge the excellent 
leadership of the Deputy Directors -General during the interim period.  
 
Not only are we pleased that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala will be the first woman to lead the WTO but 
the ACP Group is also honoured that for the first time there is a WTO Director -General from the 
group. Th e ACP Group acknowledges the unprecedented difficulties facing the WTO at this time and 
hence the challenging environment in which the new Director -General will operate. We believe 
however that Dr. Ngozi has a vast and intimate knowledge of the global econ omy and global trade.  
 
Decades of experience in multilateralism, economic relations among States and international 
development will be an aspect for the WTO at this time. We have no doubt that she will hit the 
ground running and continue her tradition of excellence as well as that of her predecessors. We 
commit to working with the new Director -General and also pledge our support in cooperation in 
ensuring that her tenure is a resounding success for the WTO and the multilateral trading system.  
 
33. South Africa  
 
We associate ourselves with the statements by the Africa n Group and the ACP.  
 
We would like to add our voice in warmly congratulating Dr . Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her appointment 
as the D irector -General  of the WTO. Dr . Okonjo -Iweal a's appointment is timely given the challenges 
that are facing the global economy, and in particular the WTO. This is a historic moment for wom en 
across the world and is a proud moment to be an African. Your leadership , Dr. Ngozi , has come at a WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  perfect yet ch allenging time when the WTO needs to reflect on its role in a post -COVID period, 
including how it can contribute to timely, equitable and affordable access to the vaccines, diagnostics 
and therapeutics. It is also a time when the WTO must contribute to foo d security and an inclusive 
and development -oriented economic recovery agenda that will promote equitable growth and 
development across the world.  
 
We therefore do not underestimate the task at hand given the challenges that are facing the WTO 
from a dysf unctional Appellate Body, rise in unilateralism, and protectionism, disruptions in global 
trade arising from the pandemic to name but a few. We remain hopeful that under your leadership 
and expertise, the Membership will navigate all these issues. It is cr itical that the rules of the WTO 
promote inclusive growth, address the historical imbalances in global trade rules and deliver on the 
outstanding issues in the Doha Round so as to unlock growth across the world, this is fundamental 
to building resilience i n the global economy. As Tata Nelson Mandela said "It always seems impossible 
until it is done. "  
 
South Africa is therefore committed to work constructively with you and the Membership to ensure 
balanced outcomes for MC12, preserve the multilateral charac ter of the WTO and its principles. 
Importantly, to ensure that the WTO achieves the goals that are outlined in the Marrakesh Agreement 
establishing the WTO. We wish you success in your new role.  
 
In conclusion, we thank you Chair, Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for facilitating 
this process to its successful conclusion in accordance  with the rules for the appointment of the 
Director -General  of the WTO.  
 
We also thank the DDGs for steering the ship and their leadership during this process.  
 
34. Mongolia (Asian Group of Developing Countries and LLDCs)  
 
On behalf of the Asian Group of Developing Countries as well as the Landlocked Developing 
Countries, I congratulate you, Dr.  Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for being elected as the D irector -General  of 
the WTO at this challenging time.  
 
In the national capacity, Mongo lia would like to warmly welcome the first woman from Africa to lead 
the WTO. We strongly believe in your able leadership of the organization at this juncture of time 
when it needs reform. We welcome the spirit, in which you delivered your speech. As you r ightly 
note the challenges are numerous, but surmountable. Mongolia is for putting back the system on 
track, especially at the time when the world is facing unprecedented health challenges.  
 
I would also like to thank the Chair and the two facilitators in their engagement in the selection 
process. We also commend the DDGs for their hard work carried out until the appointment of the 
new D irector -General.  
 
Mongolia, as the strong supporter of and the believer in the rules -based multilateral trading system, 
stands ready to fully support and constructively engage in every endeavour of the new 
Director -General .  
 
I wish Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala every success in her new position.  
 
35. Ghana  
 
Ghana would like to associate with statements made by Mauritius on behalf of the African Group and 
Jamaica on behalf of the ACP. On behalf of the delegation of Ghana and on my own behalf, I would 
like to congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointm ent as the Director -General of the WTO. 
This is a historical moment not only for Africa but for the world at large. It is for the first time that 
Africa is going to lead the WTO and, more importantly, the first time a woman is going to lead this 
very impor tant multilateral organization.  
 
We pay tribute to the seven other highly qualified candidates including two Africans who participated 
in the Director -General Selection Process. The high level interest in the leadership of the WTO even 
in the midst of a c urrent pandemic with the downturn of trade and in a midst of unprecedented global 
trade tensions underscores the importance of the WTO to its Members and the shared belief of what WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 22 - 
 
  a reinvigorated, rules -based multilateral trading system can contribute to g lobal economic recovery 
and improved living standards for people all over the world.  
 
Now that the appointment process is over, it is our hope that Members will rally behind 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala to effectively and expeditiously address the challenges co nfronting the WTO 
especially in its negotiating and dispute settlement functions. Once again, I congratulate 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment as Director -General of the WTO and wish her the very 
best during her tenure.  
 
36. Norway  
 
On behalf of the K ingdom of Norway, we congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment 
as the new Director -General of the WTO. I would also like to express my appreciation for her 
ambitious and comprehensive statement this afternoon. We have our work cut out for us.  We are 
looking forward to working with her to strengthen all three pillars of the WTO and making sure that 
the WTO stays relevant. We are looking forward to working with her to ensure that the WTO fulfils 
its purpose of being the guardian of the global pu blic good that is the multilateral rules -based trading 
regime. Welcome to you.  
 
Let me also thank you, Chair, as well as Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for your 
efficiency and integrity in the performance of your duties throughout the selecti on process. We are 
indeed lucky to have such professional colleagues. Thanks also to the four Deputy Directors -General 
who have made sure that we could continue our work throughout these difficult times. You have 
kept the ship floating and on a steady cour se in rough waters.  
 
37. Mexico  
 
We are in an unprecedented situation with a long agenda of topics that deal with negotiations and 
other matters. We are faced with an economic, financial and health crisis which is having significant 
effects. Now more than ever, our organization requires l eadership. Mexico welcomes the consensus 
in appointing Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the Director -General of the WTO. We are sure that under 
her leadership and given her multilateral experience, she will contribute in a significant manner to 
confronting the c urrent challenges that our organization faces. Dr. Ngozi, we offer you Mexico's 
congratulations. Thanks for your patience and interest in this complicated process. Mexico would like 
to reiterate its readiness to work constructively with you to achieve a st ronger multilateral trading 
system which would be effective and productive.  
 
We would also like to thank and recognize the work undertaken by the Troika for their integrity and 
impartiality that they have shown throughout the process as well as to all candidates whose 
experience contributed to enriching this process. Before conclud ing, I would like to thank the WTO 
Secretariat and the Deputy Directors -General for the work they have undertaken during the Selection 
Process and over the long transition period. Finally, a warm welcome to Dr. Ngozi. I think that your 
watch is going to be  very useful in the future.  
 
38. Cambodia  
 
I would like to express our thanks to you and to Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for 
leading and facilitating the bilateral general process in a transparent and inclusive manner. Cambodia 
welcomes and cong ratulates Dr. Ngozi for being elected as the WTO Director -General starting from 
1 March 2021. We take note of her qualifications, experience and commitment to contribute in 
resolving outstanding issues including the reform of the WTO especially amid the CO VID-19 
pandemic. Dr. Ngozi will bring her able leadership to bridge the different positions of Members and 
increase the representation of LDCs as they play their critical roles in the various divisions of this 
organization for a better, more sustainable an d inclusive world and upholding the principle of leaving 
no one behind.  
 
We also extend our appreciation to Minister Yoo and other candidates for their commitment and 
support for the multilateral trading system. We wish them all the best in their future en deavours. 
We would like to commend all the Deputy Directors -General for their contributions to sustain and 
maintain WTO work as well as Secretariat function and operation during the transition period since 
1 September 2020. Dr. Ngozi, once again, congratul ations on your historical appointment as the first WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 23 - 
 
  woman to lead this organization. We look forward to working closely with you for further outcome 
including the outcomes at MC12.  
 
39. Republic of Korea  
 
Korea would like to thank once again Ambassador Walker a nd other members of the Troika – 
Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund – for their dedication of time and effort during the 
whole DG Selection Process. Korea also extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -
Iweala for her appointment as  the new Director -General. The WTO is going through very difficult 
times with many challenges on its to do list. Most of all, the WTO must respond effectively to trade -
related issues raised by the COVID -19 pandemic and deliver successful outcomes in ongoin g 
negotiations by MC12.  
 
Climate change and environmental issues as well as the global transformation to digital economy 
are also important issues that need special attention. Above all, the WTO is in urgent need of reform 
to make its institution more rel evant, responsive and efficient in rebuilding trust in the multilateral 
trading system. Korea is confident that under the strong and competent leadership of the new 
Director -General, the WTO will be able to overcome the challenges and thrive once again – always 
a strong supporter of the multilateral trading system, Korea is ready to work closely with the new 
Director -General in this meaningful journey.  
 
Last but not least, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to all the WTO Members for the 
great a mount of support extended to Korea and its candidate throughout the entire DG Selection 
Process.  
 
40. Jamaica  
 
Jamaica offers its congratulations and best wishes to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment 
as Director -General of the WTO. This is indeed a historical moment as she represents many of our 
victories – a victory for the principle of gender parity as she will be the first woman; a victory for 
diversity and regional representation as she will be the first representative from the African region 
to occupy the prominent position in the WTO and a victory towards aspirations for a more 
development focused WTO. Jamaica therefore shares in a euphoria of all Members in welcoming the 
new Director -General.  
 
Given the importance of the role of the WTO in the multilateral trading system especially for small 
and vulnerable economies such as Jamaica, we do not only value the work of the organization but 
we are also keen on its management, leadership and overall direction. The new Director -General will 
face numero us challenges especially at a time when the WTO has been facing unprecedented 
difficulties which is compounded by the effects of the global pandemic. We are confident that 
Dr. Ngozi possesses the wherewithal, skills and experience in navigating such an environment.  
 
The WTO will benefit tremendously from her wealth of experience and expertise as we seek to ensure 
that the organization continues to serve the interests of all its Members. The new Director -General 
is assured of Jamaica's support in our thru st to successfully facilitate an inclusive, transparent, 
predictable and rules -based multilateral trading system with a development -oriented WTO at its 
core. In closing, Jamaica aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf CARICOM, GRULAC and 
the A CP Group.  
 
41. Panama (GRULAC)  
 
I take the floor on behalf of GRULAC. GRULAC welcomes the consensus among WTO Members to 
appoint Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the next Director -General of the WTO with effect from March 
2021. We thank the Government of Nigeria fo r her nomination and extend our commendation for 
their efforts towards securing her appointment. We welcome Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the first 
woman to serve as Director -General of the WTO. She is a positive example of the materialization of 
leadership o f an outstanding professional woman in multilateral management in world trade issues.  
 
GRULAC also extends special thanks to the Deputy Directors -General who have done an excellent 
job leading the Secretariat since September 2020. GRULAC would like to than k you, Chair, and the 
Chairs of the DSB and TPRB for the hard work, integrity and professionalism displayed during the 
process. We also thank WTO Members for their flexibility throughout the process. GRULAC once WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 24 - 
 
  again commends all candidates who sought to fill this very important vacancy. We also thank their 
governments for their nominations. We believe that the WTO Membership benefitted from the 
insights which they provided in the consultations and interview process into how to maintain and 
strengthen the critical role of the WTO in the global economy and how the WTO can contribute to 
international development.  
 
Members of GRULAC are of the view that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala will assume duties with a wealth 
of experience and knowledge of multilateralism and  international economic relations – and are 
confident that she will be able to leverage them in a manner that builds on previous successes that 
strengthen the multilateral trading system. GRULAC looks forward to working with the new 
Director -General in all  areas of relevance to the WTO especially in this unprecedented global 
environment emanating from the COVID -19 pandemic. Dr. Ngozi, you can be assured of GRULAC's 
support and commitment to your efforts to have a successful term of office.  
 
42. Tanzania  
 
At the  outset, my delegation would like to associate itself with the statements delivered by the 
delegation of Mauritius on behalf the African Group and by Jamaica on behalf of the ACP Group. I 
would like to begin by congratulating you, Chair, for the exemplary work you have provided 
throughout the selection process of the new Director -General of the WTO. I also extend my 
appreciation to the Members of the Troika for their invaluable support during the Selection Process. 
It goes without saying that we have had hi ghly qualified and distinguished candidates who vied for 
the position of Director -General.  
 
On behalf of my delegation and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, I would like to 
take this opportunity to applaud the Government of the Federal Re public of Nigeria for having 
nominated and presented a credible candidate. Similarly, I congratulate, Madame, 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala for the victory. She remains an inspiration to Africans not only as the first 
African but also as the first woman to hold the position of Director -General of the WTO. The 
distinctive qualifications and experience acquired from her leadership will in definitely benefit the 
WTO. The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania is proud and confident to endorse 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala as our new Director -General of the WTO.  
 
The new Director -General is expected to embark on the MC12 preparatory process as soon as she 
assumes the office. Her leadership will be critical for a successful MC12. Key issues which we are 
keen for immediate outcome include the restoration of WTO Appellate Body and an agreement on 
fisheries subsidies, meaningful outcome on agricu lture and the extension of TRIPS Waiver. 
Negotiations on these issues must be prioritized and intensified. The WTO Secretariat is rich of talents 
which must be utilized particularly to support Members especially the LDCs and the developing 
Members by provi ding meaningful technical assistance and capacity building.  
 
As I conclude in my statement, I reaffirm my government's commitment to collaborate with the new 
Director -General and the entire Membership in advancing the work of the WTO. Dr. Ngozi, you are 
most welcome. In Swahili language, we say, "Karibu Sana, Dr. Ngozi".  
 
43. Zambia  
 
Zambia associates itself with the statements delivered by the African Group, the ACP Group and the 
LDC Group. My delegation would like to congratulate  H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her 
appointment as Director -General of the WTO and we warmly welcome her to the WTO family. 
Dr. Ngozi, your record speaks for itself. You have worked very hard everywhere you have been to in 
bringing positive change and this is what convinces us  of your abilities to lead this organization to 
greater heights during these turbulent times.  
 
We have no doubt that under your leadership, wisdom and guidance, the WTO will deliver the full 
expectations of its Members and restore trust in the multilatera l trading system. We assure you of 
our full support during your tenure and look forward to fruitful cooperation as we contribute to the 
facets of this organization. Let me once again reiterate my sincere congratulations on your 
appointment and also thank t he Troika in the manner which the selection process was conducted.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 25 - 
 
  44. Nepal  
 
I align with the statement of the LDC Group delivered by Chad and the statement s of the Asian  
Group of Developing Countries  and the LLDC Group by Mongolia.  
 
I wish to express sincere appreciation to you, Chair, for leading the entire selection process for the 
new Director -General of the WTO in a fair and transparent manner. I would also commend the two 
facilitators for their valuable contribution in this process.  
 
On behalf of the Government of Nepal, my delegation wishes to extend hearty congratulation s to 
Dr. Ngozi for her appointment as the next Director -General of the WTO.  
 
It was a great opportunity to listen to Dr . Ngozi 's encouraging inaugural remarks a short  while ago. 
She has demonstrated a clear vision and roadmap covering most critical WTO issues to be addressed. 
We appreciate her for the priority focus on the LDCs.  
 
Dr. Ngozi is, in fact, assuming her new responsibility at a challenging time. The WTO is still reelin g 
under crisis in multiple fronts and it needs to be brought back on track. The current situation 
underlines that multilateralism is much needed for fostering the interest and agenda of all WTO 
Members, in particularly of the vulnerable economies like the LDCs.  
 
The perception and support of the WTO leadership on issues and interest of LDCs has a significant 
impact on their future possibility of benefiting from the system. So, the LDCs have high expectation 
from you Dr . Ngozi and you are highly qualified, well-experienced with sound academic background 
and professional skills to meet our expectation.  
 
In the run -up to MC12, your leadership is also expected to leverage Member -driven negotiation 
process towards delivering meaningful outcomes at MC12 includin g for the LDCs. Nepal stands ready 
to engage constructively in this process and you can count on our full support.  
 
Before I conclude, I thank four DDGs for their contributions in steering the process in the absence 
of a Director -General . 
 
I wish Dr. Ngozi a successful tenure.  
 
45. Chinese Taipei  
 
At this historical juncture of having the first woman and first African to se rve as the Director -General, 
we sincerely congratulate and warmly welcome Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment and 
are pleased to listen to the encouraging speech she just made. Dr. Ngozi's previous achievements 
are respectable. We have full confiden ce in her capacity of handling the challenges facing the WTO 
and steering the organization.  
 
As many Members indicated, holding a successful  Ministerial Conference  is most urgent and is a key 
element to rebuild the WTO's credibility, overcoming the pandem ic to ensure efficient operation of 
the organization, stocktaking the current negotiations, identifying the priorities of the WTO Reform 
and revitalizing useful WTO existing tools such as the existing means for amicable resolution of 
differences which are currently under used, are of equal importance prior to  the up coming MC12.  
 
We join other Members in expressing our high expectation from Dr. Ngozi on concrete and fruitful 
outcome soon after her assumption of the new post. Let me conclude by expressing ou r sincere 
gratitude to Ambassador Walker, Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for conducting the 
Selection Process in a fair and transparent manner which leads up to this successful result. Finally, 
congratulations to you again Madame Director -General. 
 
46. Lao PDR  
 
I would like to align myself with the ASEAN statement . I would also like to join all Members to 
sincerely and warmly welcom e and congratulat e H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment 
as the new Director -General of the WTO. Lao PDR is confident that, through her rich experiences, 
strong commitment and leadership, the WTO will overcome various challenges including the 
COVID -19 pandemic and to achieve great succ ess within the WTO Framework for the mutual benefit WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 26 - 
 
  of all Members especially for the vulnerable countries. Lao PDR supports the multilateral trading 
system and we will do our outmost to support the new Director -General as she discharges her duties. 
I exte nd my best wishes to H.E. Dr. Ngozi and wish her good health, happiness, personal well -being 
and great success in her noble duties.  
 
47. Viet Nam  
 
Viet Nam associates with the ASEAN statement.  
 
This is a historical moment of special joy and milestone that we join the consensus of the WTO 
Membership to support Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala of Nigeria as the new Director -General of the WTO. 
Viet Nam wishes to warmly congratulate Dr. Ngozi. We share the same conviction as many other 
Members about Dr. Ngozi's qualities in particular her leadership capability.  
 
We trust that Dr.  Ngozi will bring new impetus and successfully lift the organization to achieve its 
objectives and purpose within the multilateral trading system and meet the expectation of the WTO 
Membership during this challenging time. We look forward to working closel y with Dr. Ngozi in the 
discharge of her duty and role as the WTO Director -General.  
 
We believe that, under the leadership of Dr. Ngozi in her capacity as the WTO Director -General and 
given the stability of the WTO as a result, the WTO Membership can confi dently move forward with 
the WTO reform agenda and necessary preparations for the coming Twelfth Ministerial Conference.  
 
Viet Nam would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation to Minister Yoo of 
the Republic of Korea for her val uable contribution in the DG Selection Process that won the 
admiration of also many Members until the end. The participation of other candidates also brought 
about a great deal of ideas and profound conversation for the WTO DG Selection Process. Hence, we 
wish to thank them all.  
 
Last but not least, Viet Nam would like to express our gratitude to the Chair, 
Ambassador  David  Walker, and his Facilitators, Ambassador Dacio Castillo and 
Ambassador  Harald  Aspelund, for conducting th e DG Selection process. Our pr ofound gratitude also 
goes to the WTO Secretariat, in particular, the four Deputy Directors -General, for demonstrating the 
WTO Secretariat's resilience and consistent support to all Members during the past month.  
 
We warmly congratulate Dr. Ngozi and wish  you the very best success in your important role as the 
WTO Director -General.  
 
48. Bangladesh  
 
Let me join other colleagues in congratulating Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on the occasion of  her 
assuming the position of Director -General of the WTO. We share the jo y of the people of Nigeria. It 
is also a proud moment for all women and those of us who espouse women empowerment as Dr. 
Ngozi graces this august organization as its first female Dir ector-General.  
 
The nations across the globe have embarked upon the journey of implementing the ambitious and 
transformative 2030 agenda. Sadly, the COVID -19 pandemic has posed serious challenges to their 
endeavours to attain the Sustainable Development Go als. In these challenging times, we must put 
a greater emphasis on the potential of trade to become a tool to implement the SDGs, to address 
inequalities within and among countries and, most importantly, to set the world on the path of 
sustainable recovery  from the pandemic.  
 
Dr. Ngozi is going to lead the WTO in such circumstances when the call for a rules -based, transparent, 
predictable, inclusive and equitable multilateral trading system is growing louder. Bangladesh 
believes that riding on her wealth of  experience and wisdom, the WTO would live up to its 
expectations.  
 
We have heard the very encouraging and forward -looking speech from the Director -General elect 
today. Surely, it is the WTO Membership who can make her vision a reality. My delegation assu res 
Dr. Ngozi of its full cooperation and support during her tenure.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 27 - 
 
  Before I conclude, I would like to thank you, Chair, and the other Troika members, 
Ambassador  Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund, for your commendable role in conducting the 
selection proc ess. It was not an easy exercise – we all know. But you handled this process very 
efficiently. Kudos to you and warm welcome to Madame Director -General. We wish you full success.  
 
49. Uruguay  
 
Allow me, first of all , to associate with the statement made by Panama on behalf of GRULAC.  
 
Uruguay would like to underscore in particular its thanks for the work accomplished by the Chair of 
the General Council and his co -facilitators in the Selection Process of the new Dire ctor-General as 
well as for the hard work of the four Deputy Directors -General who have done an excellent job in 
maintaining and strengthening the multilateral trading system.  
 
Uruguay congratulates and conveys its support to the new Director -General, 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala, and wish to place ourselves at her entire disposal for whatever might be 
necessary in these very special circumstances that we are facing . 
 
50. Costa Rica  
 
Costa Rica would like to echo the congratulations addressed to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her 
appointment as Director -General of the World Trade Organization. We are very pleased to see that 
as this organization faces untold challenges, we have managed to gather consensus around her 
appointment. With her appointment, the role that wome n are now required to play in global 
governance is confirmed. It is an inspiration for all those women who will stand in the future for such 
positions.  
 
Dr. Ngozi's experience and skills guarantee that her performance will enable the WTO to continue to 
perform its duties, fulfil its mandate, pragmatically face the difficulties and challenges that the WTO 
is facing at present and contr ibute to the recovery of our economies and the development of the 
entire Membership.  
 
Dr. Ngozi's conviction on the importa nce of the collective good as the approach to solving problems 
is a new way of focusing on our challenges and we hope that it will enable us to make headway in 
solving the complex issues we have to deal with. Dr. Ngozi, please be assured of Costa Rica's an d 
my own personal support in your future endeavours. We will cooperate with you towards every 
possible success.  
 
Costa Rica would also like to express its appreciation to you, Chair, as well as to the Chairs of the 
DSB and the TPRB for having led the DG S election Process as professionally and impartially as you 
did. We also wish to thank the Deputy Directors -General for maintaining the organization afloat and 
in good order during the interim period. We also would like to thank all other candidates and thei r 
governments for having taken part in this process.  
 
Dr. Ngozi opens a new era in the WTO's history. You have multiple and complex issues to face. But 
your experience, leadership, patience and courage will enable us to overcome these challenges as 
you bri ng us together with a common spirit of cooperation.  
 
51. Maldives  
 
The Maldives warmly congratulates Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her historic appointment as the first 
woman and as the first national from the African continent to the post of the Director -General of the 
WTO. I am confident that her experience as a former Finance and Foreign Minister of Nigeria and 
Chair of the Board of GAVI among others makes her particularly ideal for the fundamental task of 
reinvigorating the multilateral trading  system during these challenging and unprecedented times.  
 
As emphasized by Dr.  Ngozi during the General Council meeting in July, small and vulnerable 
economies should have opportunities to participate in regional and global supply chains to enhance 
the operations in the trading system. As Dr. Ngozi noted in her inspiring statement t oday, we agree 
that the WTO rulebook must be updated to accommodate emerging needs including integrating 
environmental concerns within the mainstream rules -based world trading system which is 
particularly critical for small island developing States.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 28 - 
 
  We are  confident that the WTO will continue to work for the benefit of all Members regardless of size 
and level of economic development. We believe that the appointment of the new Director -General 
will pave the way to achieve the necessary momentum needed to add ress the current setbacks of 
the world trading system and accelerate the path to post COVID -19 recovery. Dr. Ngozi, we look 
forward to working with you closely in your new role and wish you all the best.  
 
52. Burkina Faso  
 
On behalf of the delegation of Burkin a Faso, one of the C -4 countries, we would like to congratulate 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on the occasion of her appointment as Director -General of the WTO. 
Dr. Ngozi, welcome. The C -4 would like to ensure you of our full cooperation for the full success of 
your task. Many challenges are on our agenda and we are convinced that together, we will be capable 
of overcoming those challenges. We are also convinced that with your extensive experience and your 
leadership, the issue of negotiations on cotton will see a significant step forward. Dr. Ngozi, we wish 
you the fullest of success in your task.  
 
53. Hong Kong, China  
 
Hong Kong, China wishes to extend our warmest congratulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her 
appointment as the Director -General of the World Tra de Organization.   
 
As Dr. Okonjo -Iweala has pointed out, this is a challenging time for the WTO but we see opportunities 
too. We look forward to working constructively with other Members under the leadership of the new 
Director -General to update and furth er strengthen the rules -based multilateral trading system led 
by the WTO so that it can effectively respond to the changing needs of our time.  
 
54. Afghanistan  
 
On behalf of my government, I would like to convey our sincere thanks to you, Chair, and to the two  
Facilitators, Ambassador Dacio Castillo and Ambassador Harald Aspelund, for the excellent manner 
in which you conducted the DG Selection Process. This has led us today to a decision by consensus 
in line with the words and spirit of the WTO Guidelines.  
 
Afghanistan welcomes the decision on the appointment of H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala. She indeed 
made history today in her successful bet – becoming the first woman and African to serve as the 
Director -General of the WTO. We congratulate her and we offer he r our full support and cooperation.  
 
We are mindful of the fact that it will not be an easy task. Important and difficult challenges await 
us including the Ministerial Conference. However, we are confident that her able leadership and 
extensive knowledge will help us in addressing the challen ges ahead of us.  
 
I would like to express our appreciation and praise to the eight candidates for the post and in 
particular to Minister Yoo, the distinguished candidate of the Republic of Korea. We also thank the 
Deputy Directors -General for their able l eadership during the past months.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, Members have trusted you with the immense responsibility of leading the WTO at a critical 
time and I would like to thank you for laying out your plan in your inspirational speech today. We 
strongly believe that the integration of LDCs especially th ose facing conflict into the multilateral 
trading system will remain a top priority for you and I and my delegation wish you a successful term 
in office and look forward to working with you closely.  
 
55. United Kingdom  
 
Let me congratulate you, Dr. Ngozi Okonj o-Iweala, for your historic appointment today. It has been 
a long time coming but I think we can all agree that it has been worth the wait. We are proud in the 
United Kingdom to have contributed to such a high quality field of candidates in this leadership  race. 
And I want to pay tribute to all the Director -General candidates and my fellow nominating Permanent 
Representatives for conducting their campaigns with dignity, integrity and according to the rules.  
 
Your appointment today, Dr. Ngozi, as the first A frican and the first female Director -General of the 
WTO, marks a new era for this organization. This will also go down in the history books as an 
important milestone on the road to a more inclusive international system and a symbol of change. WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 29 - 
 
  You spoke ear lier about the need for more political momentum for us to get on with holding MC12, 
for the WTO to conclude the agreement on fisheries, to promote sustainable trade as well as digital 
trade, to play a meaningful role in helping the world build back better from this pandemic, to 
modernize and to show that it can deliver for all its Members and above all, for their citizens, for the 
people.  
 
I want to underline the United Kingdom's commitment to working with your, Dr. Ngozi, on this 
agenda, including through the UK's Presidencies of the G7 and the COP this year and to helping to 
inject that political momentum you talked about.  
 
I want to thank you, Ambassador Walker, and your co -facilitators, Ambassador Aspelund and 
Ambassador Castillo, for your scrupulous wo rk, dedication and perseverance  through this long but 
ultimately successful process. It has been a job well done and we, the Members of the WTO, owe 
you a debt of gratitude.  
 
56. Australia  
 
Dear Dr. Ngozi, you join us as the first African and the first woman t o lead the WTO. They are indeed 
ground -breaking developments as you said today. But more important than all of that is the other 
first – your first rate leadership skills which will be coming here at a critically important time. And 
whether it be through t he Cairns Group Coalition, through the Australian Government and its 
Ministers or here at the Australian Mission, we are delighted to welcome you and to work in 
partnership with you to break plenty more ground in the years to come.  
 
57. Cameroon  
 
Cameroon would like to add our voice to those who have spoken before us particularly those from 
the African Group to welcome the happy conclusion to this appointment process through the Troika 
to appoint the new Director -General of the WTO – Dr. Ngozi Okon jo-Iweala. My delegation would 
like to welcome the excellent work that you, Chair, have done to bring the satisfactory end to this 
process. We would also like to thank the efforts of all candidates and the delegations of the Republic 
of Korea and the Unite d States for joining the consensus around the candidacy of Dr. Ngozi – this is 
something that strengthens multilateralism.  
 
It is not one country or region that is victorious in this process. It is all of the Members of the WTO 
who have demonstrated their  capability to rise to the challenges of our time. For the candidate 
chosen, Dr. Ngozi, my delegation would like to express our wholehearted congratulations to you and 
highlight that your excellent appointment is testament to your professional and personal  quality 
which reassures us with regard to your determination to overcome the numerous challenges awaiting 
us in ensuring that the global economic environment is fairer and more in favour of development.  
 
Cameroon would like to ensure you, Dr. Ngozi, of ou r full cooperation and constructive contributions 
in the execution of your tasks to build consensus around challenges that face our august institution. 
Cameroon would also like to extend our brotherly greeting to Nigeria which has lent us one of its 
greate st women to the international community and the WTO to allow us to build an inclusive 
economic programme for the world.  
 
58. Vanuatu  
 
On behalf of Vanuatu, it is a great pleasure to take this occasion to warmly welcome and congratulate 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment as Director -General of the WTO. Dr. Ngozi, on your 
appointment at this time of much hardship, unprecedented and challenging global environment, we 
wish to express our confidence in your leadership and express our support and cooperation and hope 
that the WTO and the multilateral trading system will be enhanced under your leadership.  
 
As the first woman and first African, your additional contributions to the global agenda will be 
recorded in history. We thank you for your statement. We rec ognize the enthusiasm, the passion 
and the determination you are bringing to the WTO. We hope that you will continue to support the 
issues that are crucial for small island countries like Vanuatu and many of us in the Pacific Islands.  
 
Thank you, Chair, an d the Facilitators, for the manner in which you have conducted the Selection 
Process which was respectful of the integrity of all candidates and all Members. We are again WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 30 - 
 
  delighted to reaffirm our support to you, Dr. Ngozi, and again, congratulations. We w ish you well 
and we wish you all success.  
 
59. The Gambia  
 
My delegation aligns with the statements delivered by the ACP, the African Group and the LDC Group. 
We appreciate and associate our delegation with the very thoughtful and inspiring statement of our 
just confirmed Director -General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala. On behalf of the Government and the 
Peoples of the Republic of The Gambia, we congratulate you, Your Excellency  – and the Government 
and Peoples of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for their foresight for giving you to us.  
 
We would like to thank you, Chair, and the two Facilitators, for your tremendous efforts throughout 
this appointment process and for leading us to a successful conclusion. Throughout this process, you 
have demonstrated a high level o f patience, impartiality and professionalism – fundamental 
principles which we should all always adhere to in our work.  
 
We express our appreciation to the four Deputy Directors -General for the stewardship of the 
organization during this transition period.  My delegation would like to thank the Republic of Korea 
for putting forth the candidature of Minister Yoo and for the dignified campaign she ran. We look 
forward to her continued contributions to the multilateral trading system.  
 
The quality of candidate s presented during this appointment process is a testament to the importance 
Members attach to this organization and its fundamental role in fostering international trade to raise 
living standards around the world. My delegation is pleased to welcome Dr. Ng ozi Okonjo -Iweala as 
the first female Director -General and the first African to assume the leadership of the WTO. This is 
a monumental milestone and quite historic for our organization and one we should all cherish.  
 
We look forward to Dr.  Ngozi's leadership in steering the affairs of this organization. We also look 
forward to working closely with her and all Members in making the WTO a more robust, credible, 
relevant, sustainable, innovative and thriving organization. The Gambia conveys he r full support to 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala and our assurances to work closely to strengthen the WTO.  
 
60. Angola  
 
The Angolan Delegation welcomes the appointment of the new Director -General of the WTO – 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala of the Republic of Nigeria. We wou ld like to express, on behalf of the 
Government of Angola, our satisfaction with the election of the first woman to occupy the position 
of Director -General in this organization and for the fact that she is African.  
 
We believe in the potential of Dr. Ngoz i Okonjo -Iweala. We are convinced that, with the due 
collaboration of all Members, she will give a new dynamic to the WTO and achieve the objectives 
established within the scope of the multilateral trading system.  
 
We hope that Members will redouble their effort and jointly promote success and improvement of 
the organization's image despite all constraints due to the COVID -19 pandemic. Angola is ready to 
play its part and provide Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala with the necessary support.  
 
61. Republic of Moldova  
 
At the outset, I would like to thank the four Deputy Directors -General for steering this organization 
during the transition period. We also join other delegations in reiterating our gratitude to 
Ambassador  Walker as well as to the distinguished Facilitators fo r concluding this exercise with a 
great sense of responsibility and high level of professionalism demonstrated during the entire 
process. We extend a warm congratulations to all Members on the conclusion of this appointment 
exercise. Our appreciation also goes to everyone involved in this complex process particularly to the 
Secretariat for their tireless efforts.  
 
On behalf of my delegation, I would like to congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her appointment 
as the next Director -General and confirm tha t the Republic of Moldova stands ready to engage 
constructively and to support the new Director -General in her work for the benefit of this organization 
as well as the entire Membership.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 31 - 
 
  The WTO is of vital importance especially for small, vulnerable and open economies which are fully 
dependent on international trade such as the Republic of Moldova. Therefore, we express once again 
our genuine and eff ective  support towards a well -functioning, rules -based multilateral trading 
system.  
 
In concluding, we are pleased to mention that in the next years, one of the most unique and complex 
organizations is going to be led by its first female Director -General. This represents an important 
historical moment. We expect that under the Director -General's wise leadership  and with Members' 
collective efforts, we will drive this organization to a more optimistic future.  
 
62. Botswana  
 
Botswana aligns itself with the statements of the African Group and the ACP Group.  
 
Allow me to also thank you, Chair, and your Troika colleagues for conducting a smooth, transparent 
and inclusive selection process. I had the privilege to witness this first -hand during Botswana's 
coordination of the African Group on WTO issues in 2020. No  doubt, your tireless efforts have not 
only been greatly rewarded but have also become a great gift for the multilateral trading system. 
So, thank you.  
 
We equally thank the four Deputy Directors -General for their excellent leadership of the Secretariat 
during this transition period which saw the Secretariat continue to diligently and effectively serve 
the Members even during this trying time amid COVID -19. 
 
Botswana extends heartfelt thanks to all WTO Members for their support and cooperation that 
resulted  in the achievement of the first ever female and first ever African WTO Director -General. 
This is the moment from which the time has come for indeed there is no shortage of competent 
Africans and qualified women out there to lead our global organization.  
 
So to you, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, I would like  to warmly congratulate you on your well -deserved 
appointment as Director -General of the WTO. This is a double first for the WTO but I know it is not 
for you – a woman of many firsts. I am confident that wit h your qualifications and experience, proven 
leadership skills on full display in your statement today, you will steer the ship of a global 
organization in the direction of a safe -harbour to anchor the deep aspirations common to us all.  
 
I pledge the suppo rt of my delegation to you, Dr. Ngozi, and the Secretariat that you will lead 
throughout your tenure to realize the WTO that all Members want – a transparent and inclusive 
organization that recognizes the interests and qualities of all irrespective of gend er which is why 
Botswana is proud to be one of the founding Members of the newly established Informal Working 
Group together with Iceland on Gender at the WTO.  
 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, you r appointment comes at an opportune time for us to begin the dialog ue 
on pathways towards a revitalized and resilient multilateral trading system which delivers for all its 
Members especially as we prepare for MC12. I trust that under your leadership of the Secretariat, 
WTO Members will collectively redouble their efforts  to make progress in many areas that have 
challenges over the years.  
 
Let me conclude by once again congratulating our new Director -General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, 
and reaffirming my delegation's commitment towards an inclusive, transparent, predictable and 
rules-based multilateral trading system with development at its core.  
 
63. Albania  
 
Let me first express our gratitude to the Chair of the General Council and his two Facilitators for the 
professionalism and integrity that marked the conduct of the DG Sele ction Process. We also wish to 
convey our deep appreciation to all the candidates for their willingness to serve with dignity and 
competence at a challenging time for the organization.  
 
Albania congratulates Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her app ointment as Di rector -General of the World 
Trade Organization, a historic achievement at a critical moment. The Director -General's statement 
earlier today hit all the right notes. So for the interest of time I will leave it here. We look forward 
to working with Dr. Ngozi  as head of the World Trade Organization.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 32 - 
 
  64. Canada  
 
Canada welcomes the appointment of the new Director -General and had full confidence in her. We 
look forward to working closely with Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala in the coming years and we would like 
to offer her our full support.  
 
In addition, Canada wishes to thank the four Deputy Directors -General for their commitment and 
dedication to the organization they have demonstrated especially in their leadership since 
September  2020.  
 
We would also like to thank Ambassador Walker and the other members of the Troika, 
Ambassador  Aspelund  and Ambassador Castillo, for their hard work over the past months and their 
good judgment and tact. The appointment of a new Director -General is a potentially difficult process 
and they handled it excellently.  
 
Finally, I would also like to express Canada 's appreciation for all the other candidates who put their 
names forward. There is no doubt that they were all highly qualified and the fact that so many 
talented and experienced individuals sought to fill the position of the WTO Director -General speaks 
well for the high regard in which this organization and the multilateral trading system is held.  
 
65. Thailand  
 
Thailand associates itself with the statement of ASEAN delivered by Brunei Darussalam.  
 
We congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the next Director -General of the WTO. Dr. Ngozi, in 
your book " Women and Leadership: Real Lives, Real Lessons ", you described yourself as a womanist 
for your belief in gender equality. And today, we are well pleased to witness a historical achievement 
of you as the first Afr ican female to lead this important organization. We believe that, with your 
strong leadership and vast experience, you will bring success to the WTO. My delegation pledges our 
full support and look forward to working closely with you, Madame Director -Gener al. 
 
We also take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Walker, Ambassador Castillo and 
Ambassador  Aspelund for carrying out the entire process with integrity and in a transparent and 
inclusive manner. We pay tribute to all distinguished candidates for thei r participation and 
unwavering support to the multilateral trading system as well as for the four Deputy 
Directors -General for their hard work to ensure the effective functioning of the WTO.  
 
Once again, congratulations. A very warm welcome, Dr. Ngozi. We wish you every success.  
 
66. Pakistan  
 
Pakistan wishes to congratulate and warmly welcome H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the new 
Director -General of the WTO. At the same time, Pakistan appreciates all candidates particularly 
Minister Yoo of the Republic of Ko rea for dignifying the halls of the WTO with their presence and for 
making this a very competitive process.  
 
The appointment of Dr.  Ngozi is a significant development for the multilateral trading system and it 
signals the will and the faith of the Membership in multilateralism and upholding its core values and 
overcoming the impending challenges, the foremost of which is COVID -19 and the threat it poses to 
humanity at large.  
 
We also thank you, Chair, and the facilitators for taking us through this very delicate process in 
exceptionally difficult times with utmost sincerity and commitment. We also commend the four 
Deputy Directors -General for holding the fort for all these months.  
 
Pakistan is willing and looks forward to collaborating with the new Director -General to deliver on the 
longstanding promises of the WTO of sustainable development through trade for the global economy.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  67. Ukraine  
 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, let me join other Members in extending warm congratulations on your 
appointment and wish you great success with your new responsibilities.  
 
I would like to take this occasion to reaffirm that Ukraine remains a staunch sup porter of the rules -
based multilateral trading system. My country has made significant contributions to the global 
trading system by accepting extensive obligations for its WTO accessions and remains committed to 
working towards reforming and strengthening  the WTO including its negotiating function and 
imposing transparency. In 2021, Members should focus their concerted efforts to make MC12 a 
success to deliver meaningful outcomes and find solutions to the outstanding issues.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, I would also like to express confidence that your solid background, unique experience and 
great leadership will contribute to overcome the challenges facing the multilateral trading system 
and will steer the WTO to greater heights. Ukraine looks forward to working with you and the 
Members to ensure that the WTO efficiently performs its functions and contributes to economic 
growth, job creation, higher living standards and sustainable development.  
 
68. Peru  
 
Peru would like to join others and support the statement made by GRULAC.  We would like to express 
how happy we are to see Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala being designated the Director -General of the 
WTO. We believe that her professional qualities and her great experience in the multilateral sphere 
and in areas of economic development and health and her passion for political management in 
finances and the foreign relations of her country – all of these provide Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala with 
the best credentials for successful leadership at the WTO.  
 
We would like to thank the Troika parti cularly the Chair of the General Council and the Ambassadors 
of Honduras and Iceland for the work that they have done during the entire DG Selection Process.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, Peru is committed to working with you towards the common objectives of our organizati on. 
For us, it is a great pleasure to congratulate you on becoming the first woman to assume this highly 
important post.  
 
69. Cuba  
 
It is a great pleasure to give my first speech to the General Council after having taken up my post 
on the day on which we are considering for the first time in history the appointment of a woman as 
Director -General of the WTO. It is also excellent to see that she comes from the African continent. 
We congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment. We assure her of our commitment to 
the goals of this organization and we would like to reiterate our willingness to work with every 
Member of this House.  
 
This piece of news is a key turning point. It is a time at which we see new leadership in facing the 
challenges that this organization has to deal with. We all hope that MC12 will be able to take place 
soon. For Cuba, it is crucial that we continue to de fend the principles of multilateralism. We need to 
ensure a rules -based multilateral trading system which also respects the sovereign right of each 
country to decide on its economic and development system.  
 
Development is key to the Doha Development Agend a which is still very much valid. The pandemic 
that we are currently experiencing has recalled the need to secure greater participation from 
developing countries in global trade as well as overcoming inequalities and redressing the balances 
that are someti mes lacking from existing multilateral systems – without overlooking the mandate to 
ensure that the provisions on special and differential treatment be fully implemented.  
 
In conclusion, we reiterate our willingness to support the new Director -General and her team in 
discharging their mandate with a view to achieving a multilateral trading system that responds 
efficiently and effectively to the needs of the Members of this House.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  70. Malaysia  
 
Malaysia wishes to associate with the ASEAN statement delivered by Brunei Darussalam.  
 
On behalf of my government, I would like to extend our warm congratulations to our new 
Director -General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala. We welcome th e fact that Dr. Ngozi is the first woman 
to hold this important post and the first Director -General from the African continent. Malaysia 
welcomes the new Director -General's vision for the WTO. We are confident that with her experience 
at the World Bank and as Chair of GAVI, she would be able to lead this organization and bring fresh 
perspectives which are greatly needed for this organization to deliver and address the needs of the 
people.  
 
Malaysia would like to also extend our appreciation to all candidates which have participated in the 
DG Selection Process. Through the campaigns, we ha ve established friendships. Malaysia sincerely 
hopes that this bond will strengthen our working relations in the lead up to MC12.  
 
Malaysia also thanks Ambassador Walker, Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for their 
hard work in facilitating the D G Selection Process.  
 
At this juncture, there are many challenges that lies ahead of us. We need to rebuild trust among 
ourselves and engage constructively to achieving meaningful outcomes at MC12. Along these lines, 
Malaysia stands ready to engage and co ntribute to this process.  
 
71. Togo  
 
It is a great pleasure for me to take the floor on behalf of the Government of Togo. I would like to 
thank you, Chair, and the other members of the Troika for having led this process. You have a full 
measure of admiration from me for the skilful way in which you have steered the process.  
 
I congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala of Nigeria, our new Director -General, most wholeheartedly 
on her appointment. That comes from me personally and from my delegation. This i s undoubtedly a 
very logical next step in an illustrious career and we are in no doubt that the new Director -General 
is fully qualified for this new position.  
 
This appointment takes place at a time when our organization is undergoing an unprecedented set  
of circumstances. There have been doubts about the multilateral trading system over the past few 
years as you all know and we count on your wisdom and your prowess as a negotiator to carry our 
discussions forward. The doubts that have been circulating hav e put the very existence of our 
organization in peril and we count on you to carry it forward.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, you have our full measure of support in trying to ensure that all the different discussions 
under way in the WTO lead us to a balanced trading system  for all Members. On behalf of Togo, I 
would like to reiterate my congratulations to you, Dr. Ngozi, the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the 
other candidates in this process. We thank them all for the elegant way in which they have conducted 
themselves. We  are conscious that the way in which this process has unfolded has confirmed the 
rules-based nature of our work here at the WTO.  
 
72. Kenya  
 
Kenya associates with the statements made by the African Group and the ACP Group.  
 
On behalf of my government and my delegation here in Geneva, I take the floor to extend warm 
congratulations and support to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her well -deserved victory and 
appointment today as the Director -General of the WTO. Kenya looks forward w ith working with her 
in delivering the mandate of this esteemed organization and more immediately, some deliverables 
for the next Ministerial Conference which is slated to take place later this year.  
 
Kenya believes that with the appointment of the Directo r-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, the 
WTO Membership can now focus attention on the outstanding agenda including in reconstituting the 
Appellate Body, reinvigorating the negotiating function of the WTO and preparations for the 
forthcoming Twelfth Ministe rial Conference, among other pressing issues, which the Director -General WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 35 - 
 
  has alluded to in her speech this afternoon. Kenya has no doubt on her able leadership and the 
support of the Secretariat. We shall make progress.  
 
Finally, let me congratulate you, C hair, as well as Ambassador Dacio Castillo and 
Ambassador  Harald  Aspelund for delivering on this enormous task despite numerous challenges. It 
has been an adverse period of waiting but, as we say in Africa, it is worth the wait.  
 
73. Philippines  
 
The Philippin es associates itself with the ASEAN Statement delivered by our Chair, Ambassador Maz 
of Brunei Darussalam.  
 
Our delegation wishes to express our words of welcome to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala and our warm 
congratulations on her breakthrough appointment as the first female WTO Director -General and the 
first WTO Director -General from the African region.  
 
The Philippines stands ready to work constructively and actively under Dr. Ngozi’s leadership 
together with fellow WTO Members and the WTO Sec retariat to move forward in reinvigorating the 
WTO that just celebrated its 25th anniversary.  Under new leadership, and with renewed energy, we 
hope that our new D irector -General  and we, Members, can deliver concrete results at MC12, and 
that the WTO can move forward in unity to set an agenda that is relevant for the next 25 years.  Let 
us all begin the work to support Dr . Ngozi and the WTO to deliver on the promises and hopes for a 
fair, prosperous and mutually beneficial and sustainable global economy un der a strong rules -based 
multilateral trading system.  
 
74. Namibia  
 
Let me take this opportunity to thank you, Chair, for directing the proceedings for today's special 
General Council meeting, and for your report on the recent development regarding the Appoint ment 
of the next Director -General.  
 
At the outset, Namibia associates itself with the statements delivered by the African Group and the 
ACP Group. My delegation appreciates your efforts, Chair, as well as the Facilitators for having 
facilitated the work fo r the appointment of the new Director -General of the WTO from the initial 
stage to the end of the consultation process. The process was conducted in an open and inclusive 
manner and in line with the procedures for the appointment of the Director -General as  agreed by 
the General Council.  
 
In your previous report, Chair, on the outcome of the consultation process, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala 
attracted most support from the WTO Members making her a successful candidate for the post of 
Director -General. Therefore, in preparation for MC12 scheduled to take place this year, Namibia 
welcomes the appointment of Dr. Ngozi as the new Director -General for the WTO to spearhead this 
process. My delegation would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Minister Yoo wh o has 
been seen to withdraw from the race which allowed for the finalization of the appointment process.  
 
My delegation again congratulates Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for being the first woman to lead the 
WTO. Please accept my warm congratulations on your appointment and my best wishes for your 
success as you prepare to take up the responsibilities and challenges of your office. Namibia looks 
forward to working with you in order to achieve the objectives and goals of the organization for the 
benefit of all Members.  
 
75. Zimbabwe  
 
Zimbabwe aligns itself with statements delivered on behalf of the African group and the ACP.  
 
We have asked for the floor, to join others i n expressing our joy at today 's events because, although 
it took inordinately long to conclude the DG selection process, Dr . Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala will now 
assume the position as the first woman and first African to do so.  
 
Dr. Ngozi was chosen from a field of excellent, high calibr e candidates, through an inclusive and 
transparent consultation process.  We wish to thank all the candidates for their participation. In WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 36 - 
 
  addition, we want to thank you Chair, and your colleagues, for preserving the integrity of th e 
selection process.  
 
We therefore wish to endorse Dr Ngozi, and congratulate her on the appointment as the 
Director -General  of the WTO.  
 
The delegation of Zimbabwe stands ready to work closely with Dr . Ngozi in her new position, and in 
the discharge of her mandate.  
 
76. Oman  
 
It is a historic day and we are happy to witness it and to take part in it. Today, the WTO is making 
history and Africa is the champion of that history. We would like to congratulate Africa, the people 
of Nigeria and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her appointment as the first woman Director -General of 
the WTO and the first African. We are very happy to welcome Dr. Ngozi in thi s position. She is the 
first woman Director -General and we are confident that she will not be the last one.  
 
We are also proud to see Dr. Ngozi, a highly qualified and experienced woman appointed in this most 
senior position in the WTO. We believe that mor e competent from all regions of the world should be 
appointed in senior positions in this organization. Women play a major role in the global economy 
but their concerns and interests are under -represented. We hope that having a woman 
Director -General in th e WTO will change that.  
 
Despite of the challenges ahead, Oman is looking forward to working with Dr. Ngozi to advance the 
work of the WTO and to preserve the multilateral trading system. We have confidence on her 
experience and ability to lead this organi zation to achieve successful results.  
 
Before concluding, we would like to pay tribute to all other seven candidates and to thank you, Chair, 
for your leadership as well as the Facilitators, Ambassador Dacio Castillo and 
Ambassador  Harald  Aspelund, for ste ering this process to a successful conclusion. We would also like 
to thank the four Deputy Directors -General for their efforts in leading the organization in the interim 
period.  
 
To conclude, we associate ourselves with the statement made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 
behalf of the Arab Group.  
 
77. Côte d'Ivoire  
 
My delegation would like to congratulate Ambassador David Walker and the two Facilitators, 
Ambassador Dacio Castillo and Ambassador Harald Aspelund, for their excellent work in leading th is 
process by which we have appointed a new Director -General. Côte d'Ivoire welcomes the consensus 
that we have reached which will give Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala the necessary legitimacy to carry this 
work forward.  
 
We are in no doubt, Dr. Ngozi, that, than ks to your wide ranging professional experience, you will 
be able to command the trust of the Members of this House and lead the multilateral trading system 
while also contributing to our efforts to overcome the COVID -19 pandemic. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, 
all Members will no doubt be willing to support you in discharging your mandate and I extend a full 
measure of support from Côte d'Ivoire.  
 
78. Liechtenstein  
 
I would like, on behalf of my government, to congratulate Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her 
appointment  as the first African and the first woman Director -General of the WTO. This is a truly 
historic moment. We are convinced that with your vast experience in having worked in international 
organizations and in Nigeria and with high qualifications, you will be  a big asset for the organization 
of the WTO. Liechtenstein has always been a big, staunch supporter of the multilateral trading system 
and you can count on our support to further the cause of the WTO.  
 
I would also like to thank Ambassador Walker, Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for 
conducting the Selection Process in a very transparent and efficient manner. Our thanks also go to WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 37 - 
 
  the four Deputy Directors -General for leading the WTO in a very  able manner during the transition 
period.  
 
Again, Madame Director -General, we are looking forward to work with you to further the cause of 
the World Trade Organization.  
 
79. Chile  
 
I would like to echo the other speakers that have congratulated the facilitato rs for the inclusive and 
transparent process that has taken place and has yielded this fruit that we all so desired. I would 
also like to congratulate the candidates who have demonstrated professionalism and commitment to 
the multilateral trading system.  
 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, this  process has been arduous and I congratulate you. Your appointment 
brings optimism in a year that has been very difficult in other ways. We are placing great hope in 
MC12. We hope that that will bring concrete results for our e conomies. We know that women and 
MSMEs have not always enjoyed the fruits of the multilateral trading system but your appointment 
is good news for them.  
 
We hope that you will help us combat the effects of the pandemic and that you will successfully lead 
us to the next Ministerial Conference. We know that you will skilfully lead us on those issues and 
many others. Dr. Ngozi, you have my country's full suppo rt as well as the support of my delegation 
and of myself.  
 
80. Uganda  
 
My delegation congratulates you and other members of the Troika for a job well done. You had the 
challenging task of leading a swift and seamless process. We trusted you to drive the proces s to 
identify the candidates who are most likely to garner consensus for selection as Director -General of 
this great organization. The process took a little longer than we had all expected but you have 
ultimately delivered – a confirmation that our trust i n you was not misplaced. It is therefore with 
great pleasures that my delegation welcomes the appointment of the first woman Director -General 
of the WTO and congratulates Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on this outstanding achievement.  
 
For nearly two months, this  moment seemed distant, unreachable, and thus challenging the process 
of decision -making in our rules -based organization. At a time when our economies and trading 
system have been adversely affected by the COVID -19 pandemic, we are cognizant of the uncerta inty 
and challenges that lie ahead. However, my delegation has every confidence in the ability of 
Dr. Ngozi to steer this organization to fulfil its purpose.  
 
Madame Director -General, Uganda wishes you every success in your new role and I assure  you of 
our full cooperation.  
 
81. Tunisia  
 
At this historic time, I would like to congratulate the Troika on having steered this difficult process 
of electing a new Director -General so wisely, transparently and inclusively. I also thank the Members 
for their commitment and constructive spirit. Tunisia echoes the words spoken on behalf of the 
groups to which it belongs and congratulates all the candidates who have done justice to the WTO 
Membership's commitment to promoting multilateralism.  
 
Tunisia is delighted to extend warm congratulations and wish every success to 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala at the helm of this organization. We welcome her election especially as an 
African because that shows unanimous support for the skills that men and women on the youngest 
continent have – which she has demonstrated internationally. We know that her experience will 
enable her to mount rapid responses to the many challenges that this organization faces.  
 
As a developing country, I can only reiterate our priori ties for the coming period. Effective 
participation of the WTO in implementing multilateral responses to the COVID -19 pandemic and 
ensuring that the economic recovery be rapid and inclusive, we need to make sure that multilateral 
negotiations on a wide raf t of measures move forward on a fair basis. We need to resume dispute 
settlement in a functional and effective way.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
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  We also need to bolster the WTO's position in the multilateral system and ensure that it will be at 
the fore in overcoming economic and soci al disparities between countries and continents and ensure 
that wealth and jobs are fairly distributed.  
 
82. Fiji 
 
At the outset, we would like to associate with the statement made by the ACP Group.  
 
On behalf of the Government of Fiji, we warmly welcome Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the new 
Director -General for the WTO and we convey our warm and well wishes for her appointment as the 
first woman and first African for the position. We recognize her talent s and passion as she assumes 
her leadership role in the WTO.  
 
As a small island developing State, we recognize her leadership and ability to drive this multilateral 
institution forward. Dr. Ngozi has clearly recognized the Small Island Developing States in  her 
opening statement this afternoon. The SIDS have been disproportionately affected by COVID -19, 
natural disasters and climate change.  
 
83. Fiji (Pacific Group)  
 
In saying this, Fiji wishes, on behalf of the Pacific Group, to add its voice in warmly congratu lating 
Dr. Ngozi on her appointment as the new Director -General of the WTO. The Pacific Group looks 
forward to welcome you, Dr. Ngozi, to Geneva as work resumes from COVID -19. We commend you, 
Chair, as well as the other Facilitators, Ambassador Castillo an d Ambassador Aspelund in bringing 
this process to a successful conclusion.  
 
84. Tajikistan  
 
We would like to thank you, Chair, and other members of the Troika for conducting the DG Selection 
Process; the Deputy Directors -General for their dedication; the Secre tariat for helping out with the 
preparations of this special meeting of the General Council and of course the eight governments for 
putting forward qualified candidates.  
 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, the  Republic of Tajikistan express its sincere congratulations on your 
appointment as WTO Director -General. The Republic of Tajikistan wishes you all the best in your new 
office. We are sure that under your great leadership, wisdom and guidance, the WTO will reach much 
greater heights and achievements.  
 
The Republic of Tajikistan greatly values the WTO and acknowledges the central role of the institution 
within the rules -based multilateral trading system – and is confident that constructive cooperation 
within the WTO Framework will allow us to maintain economic cooperation amid the global challenges 
including the COVID -19 pandemic.  
 
We wish Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala every success and look forward to constructive cooperation.  
 
85. Djibouti  
 
Djibouti would like to join  other delegations in this historic and express its warmest congratulations 
to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala and welcome her at the helm of the WTO. Dr. Ngozi, thank you for your 
encouraging statement in outlining your priorities. Indeed, you are going to lead t he organization at 
a critical juncture and your pledge of a proactive, objective, professional and fair leadership will be 
key in your facilitation on our difficult deliberations.  
 
As much as we have high expectations from you and for you, Members should a lso put pressure on 
ourselves to reach great achievements with you. Dr. Ngozi, your wealth of experience and expertise 
coupled with your unique perspective and leadership style will bring the WTO to greater heights and 
will help the Member States to move f orward and to restore the relevance of our organization for 
our economies and to our development.  
 
Ambassador Walker, Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund, thank you for ensuring a 
well-managed DG Selection Process. Despite the challenges faced, you  remained focus, transparent 
and inclusive in this process all along and we thank you and commend you for your leadership. I WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 39 - 
 
  would also like to pay tribute to all candidates for making this process competitive and exciting for 
all of us with this great out come.  
 
Djibouti likewise commends the Secretariat and the four Deputy Directors -General for holding the 
fort for us and making sure that our daily work and the daily work of the organization was running 
smoothly.  
 
Dr. Ngozi, Djibouti wishes you the best of successes and I hope they will be many. Djibouti pledges 
full support and cooperation to you during your tenure.  
 
86. Plurinational State of Bolivia  
 
On behalf of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, we would like to than k the Selection Committee. We 
welcome the convening of this meeting and we trust that with the appointment of the new 
Director -General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, we will be able to overcome this period of stagnation – 
generating a scenario for institutional  renewal including the Dispute Settlement Mechanism 
particularly the Appellate Body – achieving the filling of vacancies so that we have people in all key 
position of our institution.  
 
We are at a historic time for our institution. For the first time, an A frican and a woman will be leading 
us forward – demonstrating the importance of gender equality and regional rotation. Bolivia reaffirms 
its position that the WTO should contribute to the consolidation of an internationally governed global 
trade with conse nsus-based and fair rules.  
 
The pandemic is causing great concern to all of us but at the same time, it is opening up historic 
opportunities if we manage to overcome the barriers put up by the COVID -19 pandemic. We trust 
that under your guidance, we will achieve renewal of the roles of the WTO both procedural and 
substantive in order to resolve the problems and concerns of all Members – achieving the common 
goals for the good of our people.  
 
This is a timely opportunity to strengthen multilateralism in trade, to work in solidarity with devotion 
to ensure that we have an appropriate environment as we have been promoting for many years in 
the areas of goods, services and intellectual property. B olivia underscores the importance and 
relevance of guaranteeing opportune access to safe and affordable medicines and not limiting the 
exports of vaccines and medicines to face this pandemic.  
 
We are aware, Dr. Ngozi, that your successes will be our succe sses so congratulations once again 
and thank you very much, Dr. Ngozi.  
 
87. Madagascar  
 
My delegation would like to associate with the statements made by the African Group, the LDCs and 
the ACP.  
 
Madagascar would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations t o you, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, for 
your appointment. You are a symbol of the meeting of many expectations as you have mentioned in 
your opening remarks. The challenges facing you are huge. But once again we have no doubt that 
you will overcome them. My de legation would therefore like to reassure you of our support as you 
discharge your duties.  
 
We would also like the thank the Deputy Directors -General, the Chair, the other Members of the 
Troika and all delegations for their efforts in reaching a successful  conclusion to this appointment 
process.  
 
88. Mali 
 
We associate with the statements made on behalf of the groups we belong to.  
 
As others who have taken the floor before me have done, my delegation would like to say that it is 
relieved to welcome the end of this third and final phase of the series of consultations seeking to 
appoint the next Director -General of the WTO. It began several months ago.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 40 - 
 
  Allow me to applaud you, Chair, for your patience and your tireless efforts as well as your two other 
colleagues within the Troika  for seeking to achieve extensive consensus around the best placed 
candidate following a transparent, inclusive and rigorous selection process. We also welcome the 
spirit of responsibility of Members who have all owed this decision.  
 
The appointment of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala is good news for multilateralism and a source of pride 
for Africa – seeing Dr. Ngozi assume this position of great responsibility who is a citizen of our region 
and who honours our entire cont inent. The great mobilization behind her candidacy bears witness to 
her status internationally and the recognition of her merit and her skills. We remain convinced that 
the appointment of Dr. Ngozi to be the WTO Director -General will open up an era of new hope in the 
multilateral trading system at a time when the continent is deploying great effort seeking to 
operationalize the African Continental Free Trade Area.  
 
Having taken an active part in all of the stages of th e DG Selection Process, Mali would like to draw 
the attention of all Members to the importance that the C -4 attaches to agreements within the 
multilateral trading system seeking to ensure a system of rules that works for all. We would like to 
extend our co ngratulations and best wishes to the Director -General.  
 
We hope that between now a nd MC12, the WTO would be able to see progress in trade negotiations 
seeking to better integrate our economies into the multilateral trading system. Such integration is 
necessary to create the favourable conditions for development of trade and investment, ensuring 
sustainable, durable and shared prosperity and development.  
 
89. Kazakhstan  
 
On behalf of Kazakhstan, I am delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to 
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on your appointment as new Director -General of the WTO as a result of a 
highly competitive selection process. We would also like to thank other candidates who participated 
in the process for their professionalism and deep commitment to stre ngthening the world trading 
system demonstrated during this process.  
 
Using this opportunity, I would like to extend our special gratitude to Ambassador Walker and the 
Troika led by him including Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for the leadersh ip of the 
inclusive and transparent selection process and for their patience which led to the appointment of 
Dr. Ngozi as the WTO Director -General. I would also like to thank the Secretariat for their hard work 
led by the four Deputy Directors -General duri ng this period.  
 
Dear Dr. Ngozi, today is a historical day for all women and from all parts of the world including 
Central Asia. Today, we fully share and celebrate with you this historical moment and achievement. 
With your outstanding professional experti se and experience both in the Nigerian government and 
the World Bank combined with personal charisma, we strongly believe that under your able 
leadership the WTO will manage to address unprecedented challenges it is facing today.  
 
We wish you every success  in your work ahead and would like to assure you that you can count on 
the support of the Government of Kazakhstan and our delegation in Geneva in your effort to ensure 
tangible and meaningful outcomes at MC12 this year and beyond.  
 
90. Egypt  
 
Egypt aligns its elf with the statement delivered by Mauritius on behalf of the African Group and by 
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group.  
 
Today, we join other delegations in marking a significant moment for the WTO as it is the first time 
that the Dire ctor-General position be assumed by both a woman and an African. Egypt warmly 
congratulates Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as well as Nigeria, Africa and the Membership at large for 
this success. We would also like to pay tribute to all candidates whose wealth of  experience is 
testimony to the significance their countries attach to the WTO.  
 
We extend our appreciation to the Troika for competently conducting the DG Selection Process and 
sincerely commend the Deputy Directors -General for their concerted efforts to ensure a smooth 
transitional period.  
 WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 41 - 
 
  We look forward to actively engage with all Members under the leadership of Dr.  Ngozi to reaffirm 
our common goals and commit our trust and confidence to achieving concrete results particularly a 
solid preparation for MC12 and lay the groundwork for post COVID -19 global economic recovery.  
 
Egypt is confident in Dr.  Ngozi's experience, vision and ability to guide the Membership towards a 
more robust, fair and rules -based multilateral trading system that effectively caters to the needs and 
interests of all Members, especially those of developing countries and LDCs. We  pledge to her our 
full support and cooperation and wish her all the success she deserves.  
 
91. Kyrgyz Republic  
 
The Kyrgyz Republic welcomes the finally achieved consensus of the WTO Membership around 
appointing the next Director -General. We express our congr atulations to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala 
for her appointment as the next Director -General of the WTO. We are happy to be a part of this 
historic moment where not only the first African but also the first woman is going to steer the World 
Trade Organization.  
 
The Kyrgyz Republic, a small and vulnerable country which is highly dependent on transparent, fair 
and rules -based multilateral trading system, would like to convey to  Dr. Ngozi our firm commitment 
to work closely with her to strengthen and reform the WTO.  We are confident that Dr. Ngozi's strong 
leadership skills and 25 years of valuable experience in the political, economic and international 
arena will serve to effectively engage all stakeholders in different issues especially in building 
consensus on the  areas where Members are currently divided. We hope that all WTO Members of 
different development levels and from different continents will rally behind Dr. Ngozi to help build 
an even stronger, more transparent and more efficient world trading system espe cially during these 
uneasy times amid the COVID -19 pandemic.  
 
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the four Deputy Directors -General for steering 
the organization with strong dedication during this difficult period and also to thank you, Cha ir, as 
well as Ambassador Castillo and Ambassador Aspelund for your innermost efforts to facilitate this 
difficult selection process until its successful conclusion.  
 
92. Benin  
 
The delegation of Benin thanks you, Chair, for organizing this special session and  would like to 
endorse the statements made by the groups to which we belong to.  
 
Benin also thanks the Chair, and the two other members of the Troika who professionally led the 
process of appointing the new Director -General of the World Trade Organization.  
 
We express our satisfaction for reaching consensus which had prevailed during the consultations 
leading to the appointment of Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as Director -General of the WTO.  
 
We express the warm congratulations of the Government of Benin to Dr. N gozi Okonjo -Iweala on 
her brilliant election and wish her every success in the exercise of her mandate.  
 
The delegation of Benin reiterates its support for the new Director -General for her commitment to 
continue, together with the other Members of the WTO,  the promotion of multilateralism, as well as 
for the achievement of the main objectives of international trade, as an instrument and lever for 
promoting sustainable and inclusive economic and social development.  
 
93. Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela  
 
We support the intervention made by Panama, on behalf of GRULAC, and we would like to add our 
voice to those who have congratulated Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala for her appointment as 
Director -General of the WTO at a time when the world most needs a fair, relia ble, multilateral trading 
system respecting the sovereignty of States. We welcome the fact that the first African has been 
appointed to lead our organization. With wealth of experience and skills, particularly her experience 
in achieving consensus and give n the needs that have been brought about by the COVID -19 
pandemic, we would like to express the full support of our entire delegation to contribute to building 
a robust, fair, predictable multilateral trading system which stands in solidarity and is based on rules 
responding to the needs of all and it places us in a position to address global challenges.  WT/GC/M/189  
 
- 42 - 
 
  94. Niger  
 
Let me first congratulate the General Council Chairman for his steadfast leadership of the Council 
and thank him for organizing this meeting where t he General Council appointed 
Dr. Ngozi  Okonjo -Iweala as the new Director -General of the WTO in accordance with the transparent 
and inclusive selection process conducted from 8 June to 28 October 2020.  
 
It is also an opportunity for us to congratulate the M embers of the Troika, for their efforts in 
facilitating this process amid the COVID -19 pandemic which has almost stopped the world from 
moving during this period.  
 
Niger aligns with what was said by the ACP Group, the G -90, the African Group and the LDC Gr oup. 
My delegation is happy to participate in this formal meeting to appoint Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as 
Director -General of the WTO.  
 
As the first woman to occupy this position within the organization since its establishment in 1995, 
Dr. Ngozi is above all  a human resource perfectly imbued with questions of cooperation and 
international governance. Her time in institutions like the World Bank is an eloquent illustration of 
this. 
 
May she find here the warm congratulations of my delegation as well as her wis hes for every success 
in the accomplishment of her mission for which we assure her of our full support and our anticipated 
cooperation.  
 
Before concluding, allow me to recall that Niger is both an LDC and a landlocked country and as 
such, we are particular ly interested in having a more humane, harmonized world trading system – 
one which strongly favours the integration of economies such as ours into world trade.  
 
The vision of leaving no one behind, decided within the framework of the 2030 Sustainable 
Devel opment Goals cannot be achieved without an acceptable level of achievement of all the SDGs 
which requires considerable resources in this regard – with international trade playing a key role in 
its mobilization.  
 
In this regard, the already existing trade f acilitation measures, mechanisms and other incentives 
should be implemented and strengthened, and special arrangements of a commercial nature initiated 
to mitigate the effects of the C OVID -19 pandemic on the weaker parties must be pursued and 
encouraged.  
 
95. Syrian Arab Republic (Observer)  
 
The Syrian delegation would like to express its honour and pleasure to join you, Chair, and other 
Members in warmly and sincerely congratulating H.E. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala as the first African 
and first woman to occupy this position and wish her all success in her future endeavours especially 
in upholding the principles of the multilateral trading system, reforming the WTO and rejecting 
protectionism and unilateralis m while at the same time accelerating the accession process and the 
integration of developing countries and the global economy. We would like to assure you, Dr. Ngozi, 
of our full support and cooperation and looking forward to working closely with you. All ow me also 
to express our sincere appreciation to you, Chair, for the transparent and impartial manner in which 
you and your distinguished colleagues conducted the process of appointing the new leader of the 
WTO.  
 
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