The General Council of the WTO is the organization's highest decision-making body between the ministerial meetings. Meeting 5 to 6 times a year, it serves as a forum for dialogue, discussion and negotiation on trade matters.
“As Chair, my role has been to lead the proceedings during the meetings, give the floor to people, make sure we stay on time and that we stay focused on the subject. Between meetings my role has been to talk to members, facilitate agreements, compromise where possible, so that decisions can be reached by consensus when we come together in the General Council”, Ambassador Ølberg explained.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the WTO. Reflecting on its significance, he stated: “The WTO has been the place for negotiations, for dialogue, for settling disputes when it comes to trade and trade matters for the past 30 years. A well-functioning trade system relies on rules which are the same for all and well-functioning trade provides us with prosperity, jobs and welfare for all our citizens”.
Ambassador Ølberg is succeeded by Ambassador Saqer Almoqbel of Saudi Arabia. Looking ahead, he acknowledged the challenges that remain. “I hope that Mr. Almoqbel will be able to continue some of the reform work we have done, including reform by doing, but also the bigger reform. And I hope that he also will be able to achieve results when it comes to negotiations ensuring a thriving and lively WTO”.
As Mr. Ølberg stated in his final speech at the General Council meeting, “It’s not business as usual anymore – for any of us. It’s not the time for any of us to insist on old positions. We must engage in real dialogue and be open to reform. Real reform. Only then can our WTO have a future. It’s all up to us!”
As for his own future, Ambassador Ølberg will remain in Geneva and continue following the WTO’s work. With a smile, he added: “Hopefully I will do some of the things I didn't have time to do before, like enjoy life, do some skiing”.