Stoltenberg to remain as NATO Secretary General for another year
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Jens Stoltenberg will continue his role as NATO Secretary General for an additional year until Oct. 1, 2024, NATO announced on July 4.
Stoltenberg highlighted the significance of the transatlantic bond between Europe and North America in ensuring freedom and security for nearly 75 years. He emphasized the ongoing importance of the alliance in an increasingly dangerous world.
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The extension of Stoltenberg’s tenure received praise from Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who referred to it as “excellent news.”
“Tough times demand strong leadership,” Kuleba stated.
“Jens Stoltenberg has demonstrated just that. I look forward to furthering our cooperation.”
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The 64-year-old Stoltenberg, a former Prime Minister of Norway, was initially expected to conclude his term as NATO Secretary General at the end of September.
In February, he stated that he would not seek an extension of his tenure. However, due to the lack of consensus regarding his successor, NATO members approached him requesting an extension.
U.S. news website Politico reported on May 25 that Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen might be tapped to replace Jens Stoltenberg as once the latter’s mandate has expired.
European news site Euractiv reported on June 27 that Stoltenberg was likely to stay in his position for another year.
Other candidates for the NATO leadership position mentioned by Euractiv included Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, and UK Secretary of Defense Ben Wallace.
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Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas was also allegedly considered, but she was deemed “too tough” for occupying the post during wartime.
Wallace expressed interest in becoming the next NATO Secretary General but later stated, “it will not happen.”
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