Steinmeier Honors Stoltenberg as NATO Leadership Changes

Overview

• Jens Stoltenberg officially stepped down as NATO Secretary-General in early October, passing the role to Mark Rutte.
• German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier praised Stoltenberg for strengthening and unifying NATO amid renewed threats from Russia.
• Stoltenberg received the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit, recognizing his significant contributions to Germany's and NATO's security.
• He highlighted Germany's role as a 'stability anchor' and noted increased defense spending following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
• Defense Minister Boris Pistorius will honor Stoltenberg with a military ceremony, acknowledging his advocacy for transatlantic cooperation.