UPI – Malpass has faced criticism from climate activists who claim he is a climate denier, after he dodged questions about the science behind climate change at an event last September. Despite the controversy, the World Bank noted Wednesday that it more than doubled its climate financing under Malpass’ leadership last year, to a record $32 billion.
While Malpass did not address the climate controversy or give a specific reason for his resignation, he said he decided to leave now to “pursue new challenges.”
“As I have done throughout my public sector career, I will be looking for ways to improve people’s lives and living standards,” Malpass said. “This is an important and constructive opportunity for the World Bank Group to set its course.”
On Wednesday, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen thanked Malpass.
“Under President Malpass’ leadership, the World Bank has advanced shared priorities that have measurably improved the lives of people around the globe,” Yellen said in a statement.
“And while we must continue to raise our collective ambitions in the fight against climate change, during President Malpass’ tenure the World Bank has made important recent advances in this area,” Yellen added.
The Treasury secretary also said she looked forward to a “transparent, merit-based and swift nomination process for the next World Bank President.”
