<p>The World Trade Organization chief said Thursday he will step down on August 31, a year before his term ends, insisting an early change of leadership would help the body face "new post-COVID-19 realities".</p>.<p>"This is a decision that I do not take lightly," Roberto Azevedo told member state representatives, according to a written version of his speech.</p>.<p>"It is a personal decision, a family decision," he stressed, adding: "It is not health-related... nor am I pursuing any political opportunities."</p>
<p>The World Trade Organization chief said Thursday he will step down on August 31, a year before his term ends, insisting an early change of leadership would help the body face "new post-COVID-19 realities".</p>.<p>"This is a decision that I do not take lightly," Roberto Azevedo told member state representatives, according to a written version of his speech.</p>.<p>"It is a personal decision, a family decision," he stressed, adding: "It is not health-related... nor am I pursuing any political opportunities."</p>