Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdellati met with Rebecca Greenspan, the candidate from Costa Rica for the position of UN Secretary-General, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The meeting took place on September 21, 2026. During the meeting, they exchanged views on the future of multilateral work. Greenspan outlined her vision for the priorities of the UN's work in the coming phase.

Greenspan discussed ways to enhance the effectiveness of the UN and its ability to address increasing international challenges and crises. Egypt's Foreign Minister emphasized the country's commitment to supporting the UN and the multilateral system. He stressed the importance of strengthening the organization's role in addressing current challenges.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister highlighted the need for the UN to adhere to the principles and purposes of its charter and international law. This, he believes, will enable the organization to play a role in maintaining international peace and security and supporting sustainable development efforts. The minister also expressed his aspiration for the UN to play a more effective role in addressing the growing challenges facing developing countries.

These challenges include financing for development, debt burdens, climate change, food security, and energy security. The minister emphasized the importance of prioritizing development in the organization's agenda. This would ensure a more effective response to the legitimate needs and aspirations of developing countries.

The meeting between the Egyptian Foreign Minister and the Costa Rican candidate for UN Secretary-General reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen international cooperation. The UN is currently facing numerous challenges, including rising conflicts, humanitarian crises, and pressure on the multilateral system. Egypt, as a key player in the region, is committed to supporting the organization's efforts to address these challenges.

The discussions between Abdellati and Greenspan demonstrate the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. The two officials emphasized the need for the UN to be more effective in its work. They also highlighted the organization's role in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development.

The Egyptian Foreign Minister's meeting with the Costa Rican candidate for UN Secretary-General is a significant development in the lead-up to the UN General Assembly. The organization's ability to address current challenges will depend on its ability to adapt and evolve. Egypt and other member states are working to strengthen the UN's role in promoting international peace and security.

Key points

  • Egypt's Foreign Minister emphasizes the importance of strengthening the UN's role in addressing current challenges.
  • The meeting between Abdellati and Greenspan reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen international cooperation.
  • The UN is currently facing numerous challenges, including rising conflicts, humanitarian crises, and pressure on the multilateral system.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.