UAE Nominates Lana Nusaybeh for UN Secretary-General

Abu Dhabi–New York–Agencies: The United Arab Emirates has officially nominated State Minister Lana Zaki Nusseiba as its candidate for the next UN Secretary-General. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan submitted the nomination in a letter to the Presidents of the General Assembly and the Security Council. See page 13. In his nomination letter, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed emphasized Nusseiba’s extensive experience working within the international organization, her wisdom in addressing current global challenges, and her distinguished diplomatic record marked by constructive efforts across various international dossiers. The 48-year-old Nusseiba said that several countries had reached out to her during the UN General Assembly sessions to advance her candidacy. She previously led the UAE’s successful campaign for a seat on the Security Council. Diplomats in New York say she is highly regarded and considered highly competent. She added, “There is a growing recognition today that we need someone who can bring change and reflect a new generation within the organization.” She said, “I come from a country that is younger than the United Nations, but our region faces serious challenges.” If elected, Nusseiba would become the first woman to lead the UN, but she stressed that she did not run because she is a woman. She clarified, “I am running because I am deeply optimistic about the future of the United Nations, and I believe we need someone who tirelessly pursues diplomacy to open doors.”