Throughout his 10-year tenure, he oversaw the addition of 4 new members as nicely.
Montenegro joined in 2017, whereas North Macedonia’s accession occurred in 2020. Finland and Sweden formally joined previously two years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine shattered a way of stability in northern Europe.
In his farewell speech, the outgoing chief harassed the significance of the transatlantic alliance for each Europe and North America.
“We dwell in an interconnected world. Safety challenges are too large and competitors is just too fierce for any nation to go at it alone. Investing within the transatlantic relationship is the one profitable manner ahead,” he stated.
He added that an finish to the warfare in Ukraine would solely be achieved on the negotiating desk.
Diplomats behind the scenes stated Stoltenberg will depart a much bigger and stronger alliance in good condition for his successor Rutte.
For Rutte, nonetheless, the 57-year-old will inherit a broad set of challenges starting from Ukraine to a brand new US president, in addition to rising tensions with China.
After NATO, Stoltenberg is anticipated to take over as chair of the Munich Safety Convention, an annual main worldwide discussion board for political and army leaders, based on Reuters.
