Michelle Bachelet travels to Brazil to meet Lula regarding UN bid

Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet has arrived in Brazil to meet with President Lula da Silva as part of her campaign for the United Nations Secretary-General position. This visit follows a recent meeting in Mexico with President Claudia Sheinbaum.

Bachelet’s candidacy faces significant challenges following informal straw polls conducted by the UN Security Council. In the most recent preliminary vote, she placed second to last among eight nominees, securing only two out of 15 possible votes and receiving six disapprovals.

While President Lula da Silva is considered a primary supporter of her bid, political pressure has mounted. Reports suggest potential opposition from major powers, including the United States and Russia, due to her previous role as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and her perceived proximity to China. In Chile, a Cadem poll indicated that 53% of respondents believe she should withdraw her candidacy.