Nouakchott, Mauritania – (African Boulevard News) – The race for the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) secretary general seat in 2024 is heating up, with Jordan entering the competition alongside Tunisia and Mauritania, which have already submitted candidates. The position is currently held by a Jordanian diplomat, Nasser Kamel, whose term is set to end in 2024.
The UfM was established in 2008 as an intergovernmental organization to enhance regional cooperation, integration, and stability between European and Mediterranean countries. The secretary general is responsible for implementing the organization’s strategy, managing its budget, and promoting its objectives.
Jordan’s decision to enter the race for the UfM secretary general seat has been met with mixed reactions. Some have welcomed the move, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen Jordan’s role in regional affairs and showcase its democratic progress and economic development. Others, however, have raised concerns about the country’s political and human rights record, as well as its ability to manage the organization effectively.
In an interview with African Boulevard News, a Jordanian official defended the country’s candidacy, saying Jordan “is committed to the UfM’s vision of a more prosperous, peaceful, and integrated Mediterranean region.” He added that “Jordan has a rich history of cooperation and partnership with its Mediterranean neighbors and is well-positioned to contribute to the UfM’s mission.”
Tunisia and Mauritania have also expressed their ambitions to lead the UfM. Tunisia’s candidate, Kamel Morjane, is a former Minister of Defense and Foreign Affairs, and Ambassador to France. Mauritania’s candidate, Ahmedou Ould Abdallah, is a former United Nations Special Representative for Somalia and former Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The UfM secretary general race is expected to be closely watched by European and Mediterranean countries, which have a vested interest in the organization’s success. The UfM has played a vital role in promoting economic growth, social development, and cultural exchange in the region, and its next leader will have a significant impact on its future direction.
As the competition for the UfM secretary general seat intensifies, it remains to be seen who will emerge as the frontrunner. With Jordan, Tunisia, and Mauritania all vying for the position, the race is sure to be a closely contested affair.
