Maldives endorses Nusseibeh’s bid for UN Secretary General

Maldives has welcomed the nomination of United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ambassador Lana Zaki Nusseibeh for the post of Secretary General of the United Nations. 

In this regard, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that Maldives has consistently maintained that the time has come for a woman to lead the United Nations.

The Ministry noted that Ambassador Nusseibeh’s nomination comes at a critical time for the Organisation, when principled leadership, sound judgement and the ability to build trust and consensus among Member States are more important than ever. The Foreign Ministry further said that Maldives believes the next Secretary-General must be steadfast in upholding the UN Charter and international law.

It added that the role should be entrusted to a person who prioritises human dignity, justice and the equal application of international law, while advancing peace and security, sustainable development and human rights. As a small island developing State, Maldives attaches particular importance to a credible, effective and inclusive United Nations that can address global challenges and create an environment in which all countries can fully participate in shaping a shared future.

The Foreign Ministry statement also stressed the importance of a transparent, inclusive and merit-based selection process for the UN Secretary-General. Maldives expressed its readiness to work with other Member States to strengthen the United Nations and enhance its capacity to deliver for all peoples.