WTO job: I was surprised at Donald Trump’s opposition, Okonjo-Iweala says

0
63

 

By Aiyeku Timothy 

The newly appointed Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has confessed that she was surprised by the opposition of her candidacy by the administration of former United States, US, President, Donald Trump.

Okonjo-Iweala, who was confirmed on Monday, said she felt she had a good understanding with the then Trump’s administration after she was interviewed twice about the WTO job.

Despite enjoying the support of more countries of the world, the then US government had thrown its weight behind South Korea’s Yoo Mhung-Hee before she stepped down.

Speaking during her inaugural press conference Monday, she said: “I think I was quite surprised when that came (opposition from Trump) because there was no indication that there was any problem with the US.

“I had two good interviews with the authorities and with the administration so it was a surprise. But that’s the way life works. When things happen, you take them in your stride and you move on.

“It was absolutely wonderful when the Biden/Harris administration broke that logjam. They joined the consensus and gave such a strong endorsement to my candidacy. They joined the other 163 members to endorse my candidacy.”

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has set the record as the first woman, Nigerian and African to hold that position.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here