Romanian President Klaus Iohannis announced on Tuesday that he has decided to run for NATO’s leadership, a position for which many member states are supporting outgoing Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
In February, the United States, Britain, France, and Germany backed Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as the head of NATO, putting him in a strong position to win the leadership of the transatlantic alliance.
However, on Tuesday, Iohannis stated that he will compete for the post, arguing that Eastern European states need better representation in Euro-Atlantic leadership roles.
“The time has come ... for our country to take on greater responsibility within Euro-Atlantic leadership structures,” Iohannis told reporters.
“I think NATO needs to renew its outlook on its mission. Eastern Europe has a valuable contribution in NATO talks and decisions. With balanced, strong, and influential representation from this region, the Alliance will be able to make the best decisions to address all member states’ needs and concerns,” he added.
Diplomats have said Rutte was the only official candidate for the post in the behind-the-scenes contest, although some said Iohannis’ name had also been floated in informal discussions.
The European Union and NATO state Romania have raised defense spending to 2.5% of gross domestic product in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The country, which shares a 650 kilometers border with Ukraine, hosts a U.S. ballistic missile defense system and a permanent NATO battle group.
However, on Tuesday, Iohannis stated that he will compete for the post, arguing that Eastern European states need better representation in Euro-Atlantic leadership roles.
“The time has come ... for our country to take on greater responsibility within Euro-Atlantic leadership structures,” Iohannis told reporters.
“I think NATO needs to renew its outlook on its mission. Eastern Europe has a valuable contribution in NATO talks and decisions. With balanced, strong, and influential representation from this region, the Alliance will be able to make the best decisions to address all member states’ needs and concerns,” he added.
NATO leaders are appointed by consensus, meaning all members must consent to a final decision. The alliance now has 32 members following Sweden’s recent accession.I decided to enter the competition for @NATO SG position and I assume this candidacy with full responsibility on behalf of Romania. 🇷🇴 is a pillar of stability & security in the region and it is time to assume an even greater responsibility within the Euro-Atlantic leadership. pic.twitter.com/VqPe8x8fgc
— Klaus Iohannis (@KlausIohannis) March 12, 2024
Diplomats have said Rutte was the only official candidate for the post in the behind-the-scenes contest, although some said Iohannis’ name had also been floated in informal discussions.
The European Union and NATO state Romania have raised defense spending to 2.5% of gross domestic product in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The country, which shares a 650 kilometers border with Ukraine, hosts a U.S. ballistic missile defense system and a permanent NATO battle group.
Source: Reuters
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