WTO head expected to step down early - source

The head of the World Trade Organization is expected to step down earlier than planned, a Geneva-based source said and has summoned a virtual meeting to inform national members on Thursday afternoon. Brazilian Roberto Azevedo, 62, has been director-general at the Geneva-based trade body since 2013 and was on the second term of office due to conclude at the end of August 2021.

The heads of delegations of the WTO's 164 members were called to a special meeting to be held at 4 p.m. (1400 GMT) on Thursday to inform them about "pressing WTO administrative issues". The WTO said it would have an announcement following the meeting, but would not comment until then.