European chancelleries will have to urgently agree on their strategy to appoint a European candidate to head the World Trade Organization (WTO) in order to lead the organisation through a now vital reform.
With the early departure of Brazilian Roberto Azevêdo from the post of Director-General on 31 August, the appointment of a European Director-General would indeed be a major asset in bringing the WTO’s priorities closer to those of the EU. And why not Phil Hogan, the current European Commissioner for Trade (see EUROPE 12496/5)? The latter would indeed consider entering the race, according to revelations made to the press by a member of his cabinet.
This information has not been confirmed by the European Commission: “We expect this issue to be discussed at ministerial level on 9 June, during the upcoming meeting of EU Trade Ministers”, its spokesperson told EUROPE.
The main question is whether the European chancelleries will be able to quickly agree on a common European strategy for this appointment. Indeed, the Commission will only be able to take a position in favour of either candidate on a mandate from the Member States.
The stakes are high and their time is short, with applications to be submitted by 8 July. Discussions at technical level between representatives of EU Member States are beginning, but the still very partial state of deconfinement in Brussels will not facilitate these behind the scenes negotiations. The latest experience had also proved disastrous, recalls a European source, with Member States failing to support a European candidate or even a candidate at all, rallying in the end to the majority that stood out among WTO members.
It should be noted that another former trade Commissioner, Peter Mandelson from the UK, is also seeking a position at the WTO.
Who would succeed Mr Hogan?
If the candidature of Phil Hogan, one of the most senior profiles in the von der Leyen Commission, were confirmed, and if he were to get the post, a new Irish Commissioner would have to replace him. A game of musical chairs could see a Commissioner of another nationality take over the International Trade position. However, at a time when talks are being held to define the terms of the new relationship between the EU and the United Kingdom, it is hard to see Dublin abandoning such a strategic portfolio for Irish interests. (Original version in French by Hermine Donceel)