Iraq Expresses Support for UAE Nomination of Lana Zaki Nusseibeh for UN Secretary-General
BAGHDAD – October 29, 2026 – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq has officially expressed its support for the nomination of Ms. Lana Zaki Nusseibeh by the sisterly United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations.
The press statement was released on October 29, 2026 and published on October 30 on the Ministry’s website.
What Iraq Said?
In its official press statement, Iraq’s Foreign Ministry stated:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq expresses its support for the nomination of Ms. Lana Zaki Nusseibeh by the sisterly United Arab Emirates for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations, in recognition of her extensive diplomatic experience, distinguished professional career, and significant contributions to international cooperation.”
The Ministry affirmed its confidence in Ms. Nusseibeh’s ability to:
- Improve performance of the United Nations
- Enhance its effectiveness in responding to current global challenges
- Support multilateral international cooperation
- Strengthen UN’s role in maintaining international peace and security
Iraq’s Broader Commitment
In the same statement, Iraq reiterated its foreign policy principles:
- Supporting multilateralism
- Strengthening role of United Nations in addressing international crises
- Upholding principles of dialogue and cooperation among nations
- Achieving international peace and stability
- Enhancing Arab representation in positions of international responsibility – This is key.
This last point highlights Iraq’s push for greater Arab world presence in top global jobs.
Who is Lana Zaki Nusseibeh?
- Senior Emirati Diplomat and one of UAE’s most prominent international faces
- Former UAE Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York (2013-2024)
- Served as Assistant Minister for Political Affairs in UAE Foreign Ministry
- Played central role during UAE’s term on UN Security Council (2022-2023)
- Known for work on women, peace and security, climate diplomacy, and bridging East-West dialogue
- If elected, she would become the first Arab woman and second woman ever to serve as UN Secretary-General (after potential), marking historic Arab representation
UN Secretary-General Race 2026 – Context
- Current UN Secretary-General António Guterres (Portugal) – Second term ends December 31, 2026
- Race for next SG has begun in late 2026
- Growing calls from Global South, Arab League, and women’s groups for a female candidate from developing world / Arab region
- UAE officially nominated Lana Nusseibeh in 2026, positioning her as candidate of Arab and Muslim world, and as experienced multilateralist
- Iraq’s endorsement is significant – Shows Arab unity behind UAE candidate. Other Arab League members expected to follow.
Why Iraq’s Support Matters?
- Arab League Solidarity: Iraq is influential Arab state. Its early support builds momentum for UAE candidate within Arab League, OIC.
- UN Reform Narrative: Iraq links its support to improving UN performance and enhancing effectiveness – Aligns with Global South demand for more representative, effective UN
- Geopolitical Signal: After years of conflict, Iraq is reasserting its role in international diplomacy and multilateralism
The UN Secretary-General is selected by UN General Assembly on recommendation of Security Council. P5 veto power makes consensus crucial. Arab representation argument may help secure support from Africa, Asia, and Global South.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq – Press Statement – 29 October 2026 – mofa.gov.iq
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