Abbas Discusses US Veto Blocking Fayyad from UN Job

Salam Fayyad and Mahmoud Abbas (R)

Ramallah, 17 Jumadil Awwal 1438/13 February 2017 (MINA) – President Mahmoud Abbas Monday discussed with former Prime Minister Salam Fayyad the United State’s objection to the appointment of Fayyad as UN peace broker to Libya.

The UN secretary general, Antonio Guterres, informed the Security Council of his intention to name Fayyad to lead the UN support mission in Libya and help broker talks on a political deal.

According to WAFA, Abbas and Fayyad discussed the appointment as well Israel’s efforts to block it, which speaks of Palestinians’ international qualifications and ability to contribute to peace making and international stability.

Fayyad, aged 64, served as Prime Minister of the Palestinian National Authority from 2007 to 2013 and served as its finance minister twice.

He would have replaced the German diplomat Martin Kobler, who served as the UN Libya envoy since November 2015.

The US objected to Fayyad’s appointment because it considered the move an unfair bias to the Palestinian Authority on Israel’s expense.

Guterres later defended his choice, saying it “was solely based on Mr Fayyad’s recognized personal qualities and his competence for that position”.

“United Nations staff serve strictly in their personal capacity. They do not represent any government or country,” he added.

Appointments of the UN special representatives require backing of the 15-member council. (T/RS05/RS01)

Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)