Maldives backs UAE candidate for UN Secretary-General

The Maldives has announced its support for Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, the United Arab Emirates' candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary-General, as the organisation prepares to select its next leader.

Nusseibeh, 48, who serves as a Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has been formally nominated by her country for the position.

Her candidacy has already received support from several Gulf countries, including Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced its endorsement in a statement issued on Saturday, highlighting Nusseibeh's experience in international diplomacy and her previous roles at the United Nations.

Nusseibeh previously served as the UAE's Permanent Representative to the United Nations and as President of the UN Women's Executive Board.

In its statement, the Foreign Ministry reaffirmed the Maldives' position that the time had come for a woman to lead the United Nations.

The ministry said Nusseibeh's candidacy came at a time when principled leadership and the need to maintain trust among UN member states had become increasingly important.

It emphasised that the next Secretary-General should remain committed to the principles of the UN Charter and international law, including the consistent application of justice, dignity and international legal standards.

The ministry also stressed that promoting international peace and security, sustainable development and human rights must remain central to the organisation's work.

The Maldives' endorsement adds to the support Nusseibeh has received from Gulf countries as she seeks to become the next head of the United Nations.

The position of UN Secretary-General is currently held by António Guterres, whose second five-year term is due to end on 31 December 2026. His successor is expected to take office on 1 January 2027.