WASHINGTON – Robert B. Zoellick’s nomination to the World Bank presidency has been confirmed by the agency’s board.
“I welcome the board’s action approving Bob Zoellick to lead the World Bank,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr. said in a statement this afternoon.
“Bob brings a wealth of experience, a passion for development and a proven track record of working with colleagues around the world to get results,” Paulson said. “He has the trust, respect and support of governments in all regions of the world, and I have no doubt his leadership will ensure continued support of World Bank members.”
Zoellick, 53, is returning to public service after a year with Goldman Sachs Group Inc. He previously had served as Bush’s trade representative and deputy secretary of state and had worked in the State Department under President Ronald R. Reagan.
He was nominated to the World Bank post by President George W. Bush on May 29 – 12 days after embattled predecessor Paul Wolfowitz tendered his resignation.
