SEATTLE, Wash. — Supachai Panitchpakdi, deputy prime minister, minister of
commerce of Thailand, and director general-designate of the World Trade
Organization, will speak on “Global Trade and International Education Beyond
2000″ at a luncheon hosted by Washington State University on Thursday,
Dec. 2, at the Columbia Tower Club, Washington Room, from noon-2 p.m.
On July 22, the World Trade Organization confirmed the appointment of Mike
Moore and Panitchpakdi as successive directors general for the trade
organization. Panitchpakdi will succeed Moore on Sept. 1, 2002. Each will serve
a three-year term.
Panitchpakdi has held a range of positions, including deputy finance minister
of Thailand (1986-88) and deputy prime minister (1992-95). In that capacity, he
was directly in charge of Thailand’s participation in the Uruguay round of
multilateral trade negotiations, including its subsequent ratification and
implementation.
Since 1997, Panitchpakdi has served as deputy prime minister and minister of
commerce of Thailand and has been actively involved in international trade.
Panitchpakdi played an instrumental role in the drafting of Thailand’s major
economic policies, including the national economic and social development
plans.
WSU President Samuel H. Smith will host the Dec. 2 luncheon, which is
expected to include Gov. Gary Locke, Mayor Paul Schell, representatives of the
Royal Thai government and other dignitaries.
Ct115-99
