Norwegian resigns as NATO secretary general after ten years: London wants Rutte as Stoltenberg’s successor

class=”sc-cffd1e67-0 iQNQmc”>

In the matter of the successor to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg (64), the British government has spoken out in favor of the outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte (57). Britain “strongly” supports Rutte as Stoltenberg’s successor, a government spokesman told journalists on Thursday. Rutte enjoys a good reputation within the military alliance, has experience in the field of defense and security and will ensure “that the alliance remains strong and ready for defense and deterrence”.

Stoltenberg’s successor is expected to be announced before a NATO summit in Washington in July. The incumbent NATO chief will leave his post on October 1 after a total of ten years, after his term was extended twice in view of the war in Ukraine. Last year, Rutte initially ruled himself out as a possible successor to Stoltenberg. However, in October he told Dutch media that leading the military alliance was a “very interesting” task that he would be open to if it arose.

Who will succeed Jens Stoltenberg?

Rutte is currently the Dutch head of government until a new government is formed following the election victory of right-wing populist Geert Wilders (60) in November. Diplomatic circles said Rutte was also considered the favorite among the candidates for the post of new secretary general for NATO states such as the US, Germany and France. Other candidates include Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas (46) and Latvian Foreign Minister Krisjanis Karins (59).

If Rutte actually succeeds the incumbent NATO chief Stoltenberg, he would be the fourth Dutchman to hold this position. Stoltenberg himself told the AFP news agency last year that Rutte was “a competent politician with a lot of experience as head of government.” “But it is not up to me to decide who will be my successor,” he emphasized. (AFP)

Source: Blick