There are two candidates for secretary general of the Atlantic Alliance: Mark Rutte, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, and Klaus Iohannis, President of Romania. The United States Ambassador to NATO wants to resolve the matter by the Washington summit in July.
The United States ambassador to NATO acknowledged today that the “pros and cons” of two candidates for secretary general are being discussed, recalling that Washington supports Mark Rutte, and that a decision is expected by July.
“There are two official candidates: Mark Rutte and President Klaus Iohannis, from Romania. A debate is underway about the qualifications of the two and we will continue to discuss the pros and cons of the two candidates until we reach a consensus”, said Julianne Smith, during a video conference briefing.
The United States ambassador to NATO added that the expectation is to “reach a resolution on this as soon as possible” and see the matter “resolved by the Washington summit” in July.
Julianne Smith recalled that, for the Americans, there is a favorite candidate: “The United States’ position is in support of Mark Rutte as secretary general”.
“We respect Klaus Iohannis for throwing his hat into the ring”, added the ambassador, using the popular North American expression “throw your hat into the ring”, used to describe people who announce that they want to participate in competitions or elections.
Tags: United States reinforces support Mark Rutte NATO secretary general
