Updated

The favorite daughter of Venezuela's late leader Hugo Chavez has made her debut as her country's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations at an event where countries lined up to slam the United States for its recent sanctions against Venezuelan officials.

Maria Gabriela Chavez, who was named to the post last August, confirmed Wednesday this was her first public event in her new role. "I'm here to learn," she told The Associated Press.

Chavez was introduced to applause as Venezuela hosted a "Day of Solidarity" to protest the U.S. sanctions. Cuba's representative said it was an honor to speak in her presence.

Russia, Iran and others criticized the U.S. sanctions that were imposed over human rights abuses during anti-government protests.