News Releases

No. 54/07
May 18, 2007

REACTION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT BY PRESIDENT OF THE WORLD BANK PAUL WOLFOWITZ

"The European Commission takes note of the announcement made by President Paul Wolfowitz who said he would step down from his post at the World Bank on 30th June.

"The Commission calls on the Bank and its members to start discussions to designate as soon as possible a successor who will ensure continuity and stability at the top of the Bank. The World Bank plays a crucial role in development and therefore a stable and strong political leadership at its top is important.

"Since 2005 and under the leadership of Mr. Wolfowitz, the working relationship between the European Commission and the Bank has increased both in intensity and in quality for the benefit of developing countries. This has been specially important and visible in Africa. The European Commission expresses its hopes that this will continue with the successor of Mr. Wolfowitz."

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