Chilean Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna confirmed Sunday that the candidacy of former President Michelle Bachelet for the United Nations Secretary-General position was not discussed during his recent meetings in Washington. Speaking on Canal 13’s Mesa Central, the minister clarified that the topic did not arise during his talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio or other international counterparts.
Status of the Chilean Government’s Position
The Chilean government officially withdrew its support for Michelle Bachelet’s bid to lead the UN in March. Previously, the candidacy had received backing from Gabriel Boric, as well as from Brazil and Mexico. Despite the change in stance from the current administration, Pérez Mackenna emphasized that the government has adopted a neutral position, stating they will neither campaign for her nor for any other candidate.
Regarding the potential for a diplomatic conflict should Bachelet succeed in her bid, the Foreign Minister dismissed the notion. “If she wins, we have to congratulate her and work with her as has always been done,” he noted. Pérez Mackenna maintained that his recent visit to the U.S. State Department focused on strategic relations with the administration of Donald Trump.
Did You Know?
Michelle Bachelet is one of six candidates currently competing to succeed António Guterres as the next UN Secretary-General. Her competitors include Rebeca Grynspan (Costa Rica), María Fernanda Espinosa (Ecuador), Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett (Guyana), Rafael Grossi (Argentina), and former Senegalese President Macky Sall.
Bachelet’s Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
While the Chilean government maintains its distance, the 74-year-old former High Commissioner for Human Rights continues to pursue the position. She is currently conducting a diplomatic tour focused on engaging nations that hold influence over the selection process.
On Saturday, Bachelet visited Bahréin, a member of the UN Security Council, to meet with Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Alzayani. The meeting occurred against a backdrop of regional volatility, specifically regarding hostilities between the United States and Iran. In a statement posted to her social media, Bachelet highlighted the necessity of “dialogue, diplomacy and multilateralism” as tools for strengthening peace and security in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Chile discuss Michelle Bachelet’s UN candidacy with the United States?
No. Foreign Minister Francisco Pérez Mackenna stated that the topic was not discussed with Secretary of State Marco Rubio during his recent visit to Washington.
What is the Chilean government’s current stance on the candidacy?
The government withdrew its support in March. The Foreign Minister clarified that they are not participating in the campaign for Bachelet, nor are they campaigning for any other candidate.
Who is Michelle Bachelet competing against?
Bachelet is competing against five other candidates: Rebeca Grynspan, María Fernanda Espinosa, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Rafael Grossi, and Macky Sall.
How might the ongoing diplomatic tour by the former president impact the final selection process at the United Nations?
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