Netherlands' Prime Minister Mark Rutte has been formally elected as NATO's next Secretary General. The ambassadors from the 32 member countries of the alliance made the decision at a meeting at NATO's headquarters in Brussels. Rutte will assume the position on October 1, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg from Norway, who is stepping down after ten years in the role.

– It is a tremendous honor to be appointed as NATO's Secretary General. The alliance is and will remain the cornerstone of our collective security. Leading this organization is a responsibility I do not take lightly, Rutte writes on X (formerly Twitter).

Jens Stoltenberg welcomes the announcement on X:

"I wish him every success as we continue to strengthen NATO. I know I am leaving NATO in good hands."

In April, the government announced that Sweden supports Rutte as the next Secretary General.

– Mark Rutte is a wise leader with solid experience. In a time marked by increased uncertainty and a deteriorating security situation, a strong NATO is needed to contribute to the security of all allies through deterrence and defense, and to promote peace and freedom, said Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M).

Earlier today, the Prime Minister congratulated Rutte on X:

"An excellent leader in a time when a strong and united NATO is more important than ever."