Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been re-elected as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) for a second term.
The WTO General Council confirmed her re-election during a special General Council meeting on November 28-29, 2024. Her new term will officially begin on September 1, 2025.
In her acceptance speech, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala expressed her deep gratitude to the WTO General Council and its 166 members for their trust and unwavering support.
She called her re-election both an honor and an opportunity to continue driving meaningful progress within the organization. She highlighted how the WTO has played a crucial role in helping its members tackle pressing global challenges.
These included navigating the pandemic, mitigating the effects of conflicts, and addressing heightened geopolitical tensions.
Her remarks underscored the importance of the organization’s work in fostering stability and resilience in global trade.
As she enters her second term, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala remains steadfast in her mission to confront shared global challenges through enhanced collaboration and innovative solutions.
She reiterated her commitment to delivering impactful results, stressing the need to promote trade as a catalyst for economic growth and resilience.
Furthermore, she pledged to strengthen the organization by working closely with the talented and dedicated WTO staff. Together, she aims to build a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading system that provides tangible benefits for all.
Looking ahead, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala’s second term promises to be a pivotal chapter for global trade. The global trade community will continue to rely on her leadership to navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving economic landscape.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala speech
“I am deeply honoured by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members.
“It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term.
“In recent years, the WTO has played a vital role in helping Members navigate pressing global challenges, including the pandemic, conflict, and heightened geopolitical tensions.
“I commend Members for their hard work and determination in achieving progress despite unprecedented levels of uncertainty and rapid economic shifts.
“As we look ahead, I remain firmly committed to delivering results that matter—results that ultimately improve the lives of people around the world.
“By promoting trade as a driver of economic growth and resilience, the WTO will continue to provide a collaborative platform for Members to address shared global challenges.
“I am deeply committed to working alongside the talented and dedicated staff of the WTO to build a more inclusive, equitable, and rules-based multilateral trading system that benefits all.“
