In a bid for the position of NATO secretary general, the Netherlands’ outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte embarked on a visit to Turkey on Friday, aiming to garner support from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The incumbent NATO chief, Jens Stoltenberg, a former Norwegian prime minister, has held the role of NATO’s top civilian official since 2014. His tenure has been extended multiple times, particularly in light of the need for stability following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Initially, NATO members Turkey and Hungary had expressed reservations regarding Rutte’s candidacy. However, during Rutte’s visit on Friday, he engaged in discussions with Erdogan, including a joint news conference.
Rutte emphasized the importance of Turkey’s role within NATO, describing Ankara as a significant actor in the region with considerable geopolitical influence.
While Erdogan refrained from making explicit commitments regarding Turkey’s support, he underscored the importance of a candidate who would prioritize solidarity within the alliance and maintain NATO’s crucial position in Euro-Atlantic security.
At the conclusion of the news conference, Erdogan extended his well-wishes to Rutte, accompanied by a friendly exchange of smiles. This gesture was reciprocated by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, signaling a cordial atmosphere during the discussions.
NATO officials and envoys aim to finalize the nomination for Stoltenberg’s successor by the end of April, prior to the commencement of competition for top European Union positions around the June 6-9 elections. Avoiding potential division within the alliance, particularly ahead of its 75th anniversary summit in Washington in July, is a key priority for NATO stakeholders.
The role of NATO chief involves chairing meetings, facilitating consultations among member countries, and serving as a unified voice for all member nations. The selection of a new secretary general is pivotal in ensuring the effective functioning and cohesion of the alliance.
