Director General, WTO, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (middle) shortly after receiving the Honourary Doctorate Degree Award.

The University of World Economy and Diplomacy Tashkent, Uzbekistan has awarded an Honourary Doctorate Degree in Economy and Diplomacy on the Director General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

First Deputy Chairman of the Senate and Rector of the University, Prof Sodyq Safoev, while justifying the award, said it was in recognition of the fact that trade, which Dr Okonjo-Iweala represents is not only not only about the exchange of goods and services, but also about the exchange of ideas and values.

The WTO-boss, who received the award, said she was so happy to be honoured with the degree, which she cherishes so much.

According to her, she further felt deeply honoured to have been selected to present the lead paper at the event entitled: “Why the WTO matters for Uzbekistan”, which was well attended.

In a post on her verified X handle @NOIweala, the former Managing Director of the World Bank said:” Immensely appreciative of the Honourary Doctorate Degree Award of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and pleased to give a well-received lecture on “Why the WTO matters for Uzbekistan “.

“I was particularly proud to be received by the WTO Chair Professor Umid Yakubkhodjaev, the faculty and brilliant students. A privilege to be hosted by Prof Sodyq Safoev.

“First Deputy Chairman of the Senate and Rector of University of World Economy and Diplomacy, who said ‘Trade is not only about the exchange of goods and services, it is also about the exchange of ideas and values’, so true.”