Representative Michael R. Turner | Michael R. Turner Official Photo
Representative Michael R. Turner | Michael R. Turner Official Photo
Today, Congressman Mike Turner, leader of the U.S. delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, expressed his support for Mark Rutte, the former Prime Minister of the Netherlands, as he takes on his new role as Secretary General of NATO.
"Congratulations to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Your leadership will ensure that NATO promotes our shared values of democracy and freedom," Turner stated. He emphasized the importance of a strong and active NATO in addressing global threats from countries such as China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. "Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine exemplifies the continuing conflict between authoritarianism and democracy," he added. Turner also mentioned that the U.S. delegation is eager to collaborate with Rutte to enhance transatlantic relations.
Turner extended gratitude to Jens Stoltenberg for his ten years of service as NATO's Secretary General. He highlighted Stoltenberg's achievements during his tenure, including overseeing NATO's expansion with new members Finland and Sweden and ensuring more than 20 member countries met defense spending goals outlined in the 2014 Wales pledge. "We congratulate Mr. Stoltenberg on his new role at the Munich Security Conference," Turner concluded.
Mark Rutte began his duties as Secretary General on October 1, 2024. Jens Stoltenberg served as Secretary General from October 1, 2014, until September 30, 2024.
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