'I'M NOT A UNILATERALIST'

With a vote on his nomination to head up the World Bank scheduled for this week, Paul Wolfowitz attempted to calm foreign jitters by speaking out. In an interview with NEWSWEEK's Lally Weymouth, he discussed his prospective new job, as well as his past and current role in making U.S. Iraq policy. Excerpts:

What are you going to tell the Europeans as to why you would be a good head of the World Bank?

I want to tell the Europeans why I think I would be [a good candidate], but also I want to listen to them, hear their views and better understand their expectations for the bank.

But what's the answer to the question "Why you and the bank?"

I believe deeply in the mission of the bank. I believe that reducing poverty and promoting economic development is one of the important things we need to do to leave our children and grandchildren with a better world.

A lot of people always thought of you staying in Washington and being in the cabinet rather than going off into the World Bank.