Hugo Chavez' favorite daughter makes debut as UN envoy as countries bash US over sanctions

Maria Gabriela Chavez, the daughter of late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez, speaks with Xavier Lasso, Ecuador's ambassador to the United Nations, Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at United Nations headquarters. Chavez is Venezuela's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations. (AP Photo/Cara Anna) (The Associated Press)

Maria Gabriela Chavez, the daughter of late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez, poses with Venezuela's ambassador to the United Nations, Rafael Ramirez, Wednesday, April 1, 2015 at United Nations headquarters. Chavez is Venezuela's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations. (AP Photo/Cara Anna) (The Associated Press)

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.