Brussels, 07/12/2004 (Agence Europe) - The European Union is supporting the candidacy of Pascal Lamy for the post of director general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), who would take over from Supachia Panitchpakdi from Thailand on 1 September 2005. Representatives from Member States at the 133 Committee held an initial discussion on Lamy's candidacy on Tuesday morning and which had been put forward by France. "Broad support" was observed for Lamy's candidacy, indicated Commissioner (for trade) Peter Mandelson's spokesperson to the press on Tuesday. There has so far not been any formal vote at the 133 Committee but the debate has, nevertheless, demonstrated that the candidacy of the former Commissioner for Trade was supported by everyone, she explained, adding that they were expecting Member States to take a definitive decision very soon, which was likely to be on Thursday at the Committee of Permanent Representatives (Coreper). From that moment on, Mr Lamy will not only be France's candidate but also that of the European Union, which as part of the WTO, had the right to propose a candidate to take over from Mr Panitchpakdi. Peter Mandelson assured Lamy of his support because he was a very good candidate. President Barroso also gave his firm support to Lamy's candidacy, indicated the spokesperson.
Candidacies for the post of WTO director general have to be submitted by the end of the month. At this stage three other candidates' names are known: the Brazilian Ambassador to the WTO, Luis Felipe de Seixas Correa, his colleague from Uruguay, Carlos Perez del Castillo and the minister for foreign affairs in Mauritius, Jayen Cuttaree. A final decision on the successor is expected to be take by 31 May 2005 at the latest. WTO statutes determine that following the closure of applications on 31 December, member countries will attempt to find consensus via consultation. If this is not forthcoming, by 31 May 2005, there will be a vote at the WTO General Council. The next director general will be appointed or elected for a four year mandate.