NATO ambassadors finalized Rutte’s appointment during a meeting at the alliance’s headquarters in Brussels. U.S. President Joe Biden and other leaders will officially greet him at a summit in Washington from July 9 to 11.
The current Dutch prime minister will replace Norway’s Jens Stoltenberg as NATO's secretary general on October 1. Stoltenberg led NATO for over ten years, with his term extended several times, partly to maintain stability following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Stoltenberg said he warmly welcomes NATO allies' decision to choose Mark Rutte as his successor.
"Mark Rutte is a dedicated supporter of the trans-Atlantic alliance, a capable leader, and someone who can bring people together. I wish him all the best as we work to make NATO stronger for current and future challenges. I am confident that NATO is in capable hands as I leave," he added.
The secretary-general of NATO chairs meetings and leads sensitive discussions among member countries to ensure the organization, which relies on agreement among all, operates smoothly. They also oversee the implementation of decisions and represent all members in their public statements.
Rutte faced several challenges in securing the position, despite support from the White House and major NATO members like Germany. He became the only candidate after Romanian President Klaus Iohannis withdrew last week.
Earlier this month, Hungary withdrew its opposition after Rutte agreed that Budapest would not be required in the future to send personnel or funds for a new aid plan for Ukraine. In NATO, unanimous decisions mean any member can block projects and operations.
Turkey initially opposed Rutte's candidacy but withdrew its objections in April.
SOURCE: AP News