DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “I decided to launch this high-level series to enrich the debate on the role of multilateralism in responding to challenges of the global commons, such as the pandemic, climate change and sustainable development through inclusive growth. Trade can be a part of the solution to these challenges, particularly at this time of tremendous strain in the world.”

“The series envisages the sharing of ideas and knowledge with visionary leaders, innovators and game-changing policy makers. I believe their unique insights and experiences can inspire us all as we are trying to reinvigorate and put this organization at the heart of a coherent and inclusive system of global governance,” DG Okonjo-Iweala added.

A diverse audience, including WTO ambassadors, Swiss authorities, heads of intergovernmental organizations, representatives of non-governmental organizations, business and academia, will be invited to the inaugural event.

Several lectures will be held annually in the Presidential Lecture Series. All of the lectures will be livestreamed.

A collection of recent interviews and speeches by Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley is available in the WTO's online library: https://library.wto.org/presidential01/

More information on the lecture series is available here.