Editor's note: Freddie Reidy is a freelance writer based in London. He studied history and history of art at the University of Kent, Canterbury, specializing in Russian history and international politics. The article reflects the author's opinions, and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

President Trump may be doing his best to obstruct the transition of President-elect Joe Biden, but it has not stopped the incoming administration from starting to build their team.

As Biden made the customary round of calls to world leaders, press attention turned to foreign affairs, a topic that received little attention on the campaign trail or during debates. Biden has been "letting them (world leaders) know that America is back. We're going to be back in the game."

Senator Chris Coons is widely tipped to succeed Mike Pompeo as the next Secretary of State, with the appointment of Hillary Clinton as UN Ambassador said to be "under consideration."

Could the former Secretary of State really be in line for a political swansong?

While potentially being seen as a sop to embittered supporters of her failed 2016 presidential campaign, her appointment could actually be a shrewd calculation.

There is, of course, a symbolic aspect to a Clinton return in that it would be a recalibration after what has been a traumatic four years for the Democrats. More importantly though, an appointment of Clinton would symbolize a renewed commitment to the United Nations, an institution largely sidelined by the incumbent president but badly needed in the face of global challenges such as climate change and ongoing security threats.

Clinton already has a relationship with many of the key players across the world and a wealth of experience, not just from her time at the State Department, but as a senator and first lady. Her ability to "hit the ground running" will likely stand her in good stead too against her rivals for the position.

There is certainly a global appetite for the U.S. to re-engage in multilateralism. Rejoining treaties and organizations, such as the Paris Climate Accord, World Health Organization and potentially the Iran nuclear agreement, are also seen as likely steps for a Biden administration and one in line with Clinton's own foreign policy views.

As ever though, Hillary's experience comes with the caveat of not just her success but her controversies. The memory of the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi still looms large and is a stain on the reputation of the department. It would also be highly likely that the IT department at State would also be keen on setting up her email account for her.

Washington insiders have told the Washington Post a Clinton appointment "would be a way for Biden to highlight the importance of the position in his administration, and that putting her there would raise the prestige of the UN itself at a time when global cooperation and the U.S. role on the world stage, has ebbed."

It is unlikely that Clinton could serve in any other capacity in Biden's cabinet, though. While the President-elect kept his campaign focused on the middle ground, too many old faces would likely lead to a build-up of frustration on the progressive wing of the party – a wing that never fully endorsed Clinton after her defeat of Bernie Sanders in 2016.

With delicately balanced houses, it would be wise for Biden to try and reduce the number of senators and congressman appointed to positions which would require their replacement, further strengthening the Clinton cause.

Other names under consideration are Afghan veteran and former mayor Peter Buttigieg who garnered a following during the Democratic primaries. Clinton's former understudy and co-architect of the Iran Nuclear Deal, Wendy Sherman is also seen as a likely candidate.

There is also the question of whether Clinton is seeking the position. While she would arguably be a huge asset to Biden's foreign policy team, the former first lady has often spoken of her content at "being a grandmother." It is undeniable though, that there is a sense of unfinished business that may prove too tempting.

What is likely to decide whether Clinton is afforded her political swansong is the ease with which she will be permitted to clear a Senate confirmation hearing, which would be an early test of her diplomatic skill.

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