The Department of Public Information (DPI) yesterday apologized for the publication of inaccurate information concerning the position of China in relation to Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, Guyana’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations.
DPI said that the report incorrectly characterised China’s position as an expression of support for the candidacy.
“DPI acknowledges that this representation was inaccurate and did not reflect the official position communicated by the Chinese authorities.
“We regret the error and any misunderstanding or diplomatic discomfort it may have caused. The inaccurate information has been corrected, and steps are being taken internally to strengthen our verification and editorial review procedures, particularly in relation to sensitive foreign policy and diplomatic matters”, DPI said.
As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council China would not have publicly indicated a preference for any of the candidates in the race for the position.
Rodrigues-Birkett was a relatively late entrant to the race and has been engaged in a series of meetings in key capitals.
On Monday she met with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
A statement on the Facebook page of Guyana’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations sad that she presented her candidacy for the position of United Nations Secretary General and shared her vision for a more efficient and effective United Nations.
“She thanked His Excellency for the warm reception and constructive engagement and looks forward to continuing her engagement with China and all other Member States to build a stronger United Nations for present and future generations”, the statement said.
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