Ex-PM of Netherlands and advocate for Ukraine, Mark Rutte, assumes role as NATO Secretary General
Photo: AP Photo / Vincent Thian
On October 1, 2024, Mark Rutte, the previous Prime Minister of the Netherlands, was officially appointed as the new Secretary General of NATO, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg, who had held the position for a decade.
Glavkom gathered the primary information on the alliance's new general secretary.
At the handover ceremony taking place at NATO headquarters, Rutte stressed the significance of NATO as a foundation for unified security, particularly in light of Russia's aggression towards Ukraine.
Mark Rutte's political career
In 2002, Rutte was elected to the Dutch House of Representatives. He quickly proved himself to be a skilled politician and, in 2006, was appointed Secretary of State for Education, Culture, and Science. In 2010, following the resignation of Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, Rutte took on the role of Prime Minister of the Netherlands.
Under his leadership, the Netherlands experienced economic difficulties, but Rutte maintained political stability in the country. He introduced a series of reforms to reduce government spending and stimulate economic growth.
Although some members of the NATO member states initially questioned his candidacy, 32 unanimously supported it.
Supporting Ukraine was a crucial aspect of his international efforts, and he consistently demonstrated his support for Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression.
Rutte's appointment as NATO Secretary General comes at a crucial time. The alliance is prioritizing the reinforcement of defenses against the Russian threat and securing solid support for Ukraine in its fight for independence.
Education and early years
Mark Rutte was born in The Hague on February 14, 1967. He studied history at the University of Groningen. He later worked in the private sector, including at Unilever, where he gained valuable experience in the corporate world before pursuing a career in politics.
Secretary General of NATO
In 2024, Rutte was elected NATO's new Secretary General, the first person from the Netherlands to hold this role.
Mark Rutte's appointment to the post comes at a crucial time. The alliance is actively working towards fortifying defense capabilities and addressing threats from Russia. His primary responsibility will be to bolster transatlantic relations and collaborate on efforts to aid Ukraine in the ongoing war.
Personal life
Rutte is renowned for his modesty. He is unmarried and does not have any children. He stays active through sports and has a keen interest in art.
So, Mark Rutte takes on the role of NATO Secretary General with significant challenges and responsibilities, explicitly aiding Ukraine and enhancing Alliance security against contemporary threats.
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It's important to mention that the previous NATO Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, stated that all countries within the North Atlantic Alliance should fully endorse the Ukrainian peace plan rather than the Sino-Brazilian proposal.
