Costa Rica’s Foreign Minister Contends for Role as Chief of WTO

BY STAFF REPORT

Costa Rica’s Foreign Trade Minister Anabel González has been named as a candidate for the post of WTO (World Trade Organization) Director General.

If elected, González would assume office by the end of this year, replacing Frenchman Pascal Lamy.

Costa Rica President Laura Chinchilla has praised hes foreign minister saying she is “positively recognized” by the international community. González headed the WTO Agricultural Division between 2005 and 2009.

According to Costa Rica News, González has promised that if elected she would create an agenda to drive growth and development in all countries. According to the paper, she negotiated the free trade agreement (FTA) between Central America and the United States.

Gonzalez, who became the foreign trade minister in May 2010, had shouldered the responsibility of formulating and implementing trade and investment policies in the country.

“I will make every effort to support the candidacy of this great Costa Rican, who can serve the community with dedication,” the paper quoted the President as saying.