Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), has acknowledged the “wise counsel” of Kamala Harris, US vice-president, in the aftermath of their call on the need for reforms in the global trade body.
During the call on Thursday, Harris offered her support as the global community works toward recovery from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
She also congratulated Okonjo-Iweala on her new role as she made history in becoming the first African and first female to head WTO.
In a tweet on Friday, the first female vice-president of the US said: “l spoke with WTO Director General Dr Okonjo-Iweala. We agreed to advancing international trade for recovery and equitable economic growth.
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“We discussed human rights, investing in the environment, health, and technology to spur development and prosperity for the American people.”
Subsequently, Okonjo-Iweala tweeted: “Thank you Madam Vice President Kamala Harris @VP for a great conversation on the way forward on @WTO reform. Your encouragement and wise counsel is much appreciated.”
Thank you Madam Vice President Kamala Harris @VP for a great conversation on the way forward on @WTO reform. Your encouragement and wise counsel is much appreciated. https://t.co/Xuqvi5cmuw
Advertisement— Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (@NOIweala) March 12, 2021
Both leaders committed to work together to address the economic and health consequences of COVID-19, climate change and to prioritise resilience in the global supply chain.
The White House, in a readout of the call, said: “The Vice President and the director general discussed how improved living standards, labour rights, human rights, and the well-being of working families must be at the centre of our shared priorities to use trade as a lever to lift communities out of poverty.
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“They also discussed the need for reforms within the World Trade Organization to maximize its effectiveness for the future.”
Harris and Okonjo-Iweala both pledged to work together in accelerating momentum in the global economy for the benefit of all.
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