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The European Commissioner for Trade Phil Hogan has announced he will not be putting his name forward for the position of director general at the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
Commissioner Hogan said he has informed President of the Commission, Ursula Von Der Leyen of his decision and will return to his duties as trade commissioner with immediate effect.
“We will work together to implement our important work programme on behalf of our EU citizens as well as implementing our trade agenda with renewed vigour.
“Can I express my gratitude to President Von Der Leyen for her generous advice and support throughout the evaluation of my potential candidacy for the WTO director-general.
“I am grateful to the Irish Government and in particular, former Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar for agreeing to nominate me. I have also considered carefully the views of heads of government and trade ministers in reaching this decision,” he said.
Commissioner Hogan said his decision will now allow other potential candidates, including European nominees, to consider their candidacy before the close of nominations on the 8 July next.
“The EU will work constructively with the new Director-General of the WTO to achieve our mutual objectives,” he said.
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