By Djinodji SOLMENGAR Rodrigue
Chad has endorsed Emirati diplomat Lana Nusseibeh for the post of United Nations Secretary-General, adding its support to her potential bid to succeed António Guterres.
If elected, Nusseibeh would become the first woman to lead the United Nations since its creation in 1945.
Her potential candidacy comes amid a competitive selection process. Several candidates, including Costa Rica’s Rebecca Grynspan, Guyana’s Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett and Argentina’s Rafael Grossi, are seeking the position.
However, none has yet secured the necessary support from all five permanent members of the UN Security Council, which hold veto power over the appointment.
Nusseibeh has served as the UAE’s ambassador to the UN and represented her country on the Security Council. Diplomats in New York regard her as an experienced and pragmatic negotiator.
Authorities in Chad said its endorsement reflects its close ties with the United Arab Emirates and its confidence in Nusseibeh’s diplomatic experience to promote dialogue, peace and international cooperation.
The selection process remains uncertain. The next UN Secretary-General will need broad international support, including a recommendation from the Security Council and appointment by the General Assembly.