Incoming World Bank Chief holds first meeting
Post date: Apr 17, 2012 11:57:43 AM
Jim Young Kim calls on Peruvian President Ollanta Humala, just hours later being selected as next head of the lender.
PERU-WORLD BANK CHIEF - The Korean-born health expert was in Peru, as part of a global tour to seek support when the news came in.
So Jim Young Kim's call on Peruvian President Ollanta Humala just hours later became a congratulatory call and Kim's first as the incoming World Bank Chief.
The choice of Kim maintains Washington's grip on the job, and leaves developing countries frustrated with the selection process.
He won the job with the support of Western European allies, Japan, Canada, and some emerging economies, like Peru.
The U.S. Ambassador to Peru, Rose Likins, says Washington is thankful for Lima's support.
ROSE M. LIKINS, U.S. AMBASSADOR TO PERU, SAYING :
"President Obama put forward Mr. Kim for his personal and professional trajectory. We are very thankful for Peru's support in his election, and now President Humala could congratulate him for his election. This is his first meeting after being elected and we're very proud that it was in Peru. Doctor Kim has ties to Peru that date back to '94 and has much esteem for Peruvians."
Kim won the job over Nigeria's widely respected finance minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
He takes over as World Bank President on July 1, when Robert Zoellick steps down.
Arnold Gay, Reuters