ABU DHABI: Anwar Gargash, the UAE presidential diplomatic adviser, criticised Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Sunday. Ghalibaf opposed Lana Nusseibeh’s candidacy for United Nations Secretary-General.
Gargash acknowledged that it is reasonable to discuss Nusseibeh’s qualifications, vision, and candidacy. However, he deemed Ghalibaf’s stance as lacking objectivity.
In a post on X, Gargash argued that the United Nations should promote dialogue and work to resolve disputes. Rather than exacerbate rivalries, it should encourage peace. He said Ghalibaf’s opposition was expected because Nusseibeh is known for bridging differences and prioritising diplomacy.
Additionally, Gargash questioned whether Ghalibaf’s social media posts represented his personal views or were managed by someone else. Ghalibaf previously criticised Nusseibeh’s candidacy in a separate X post.
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He accused her bid of supporting what he called a “Greater Israel project” and of whitewashing what he described as genocide in Gaza. The UAE formally nominated Nusseibeh on October 21.
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She is due to take part in an interactive dialogue with United Nations member states on October 27. This will be part of the selection process.
