WTO Director General to Resign
The director general of the World Trade Organization will resign in August, citing personal reasons and adding that the organization needs a new leader for “post-COVID realities.” Roberto Azevedo made the announcement during a virtual meeting with WTO members on May 14, saying he hopes the WTO continues its reform efforts. He also urged members to “promptly move ahead” to select the next director general. “I urge you not to treat the process of selecting the next DG as business as usual. This organization must start 2021 … ensuring that the multilateral trading system responds to new economic realities, above all the post-COVID recovery,” Azevedo said. “It cannot afford to be distracted by a protracted search for a new DG.” Azevedo will officially step down Aug. 31, one year before his term was set to end.
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In a statement, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said that Azevedo led the WTO with “grace and a steady hand” despite “the many shortcomings of the WTO.” The U.S. “looks forward to participating in the process of selecting a new Director General,” he said.
Azevedo’s resignation comes amid uncertainty at the WTO, including a non-functioning dispute settlement body and disagreements over potential WTO reform (see 2003060035 and 1911220062). Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo, said he plans to introduce a resolution to encourage the U.S. to withdraw from the WTO (see 2005080011).