The diplomatic campaign of former Senegalese President Macky Sall to seek the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations is taking on a new dimension. After several rounds of consultations on the African continent, a particularly strategic stage awaits him on Monday in Moscow, where he is due to be received by Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Many observers regard this meeting as one of the most important appointments of his international campaign. Russia is indeed one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and, as such, holds a decisive right of veto in the process of designating the future Secretary-General.
Before setting course for Russia, Macky Sall multiplied his diplomatic consultations. On his return to Senegal, he received a particularly warm welcome from many supporters, an episode interpreted by his backers as evidence of his undiminished political influence. He then travelled to the Gambia, where he held talks with President Adama Barrow, before heading to Morocco, his country of residence, and then flying on to Moscow.
The planned talks with Vladimir Putin go beyond the framework of bilateral relations between Senegal and Russia. They are part of a genuine diplomatic battle in which the backing of each major power may prove decisive. Securing Moscow’s support would be a major advantage for Macky Sall, at a time when consensus among the permanent members of the Security Council is essential to avoid any deadlock linked to the right of veto.
Beyond Russian support, this tour reflects the former Senegalese president’s determination to consolidate a network of allies across several continents. His experience at the head of Senegal, his role in a number of African issues and his visibility on questions of development, peace and governance are the main arguments he puts forward to persuade influential capitals.
Macky Sall’s candidacy comes in a geopolitical context marked by deep rivalries between the major powers. In such an environment, diplomatic balances will weigh as heavily as the candidates’ credentials. Every trip, every meeting and every statement is therefore closely analysed by foreign ministries.
The meeting with Vladimir Putin could thus mark a turning point in this campaign. While no official endorsement is expected before the end of the diplomatic consultations, a positive signal from Russia would considerably strengthen Macky Sall’s chances in the race to succeed at the head of the United Nations.
The coming weeks should be marked by an intensification of diplomatic efforts, as the various candidates continue their consultations with member States in order to build the consensus needed around their candidacy.
