(Yicai Global) May 18 -- China and other members of the World Trade Organization will continue maintaining the WTO’s normal functions after Director-General Roberto Azevedo leaves in August, China’s Vice Minister of Commerce Wang Shouwen said at a press briefing today.

China will continue to ensure an open and safe global supply chain and appeal against unilateralism and protectionism, Wang added, saying China respected Azevedo’s decision to leave a year before his term was due to end.

Editor: James Boynton