Steinmeier Honors Stoltenberg as NATO Leadership Changes

Jens Stoltenberg is awarded the Grand Cross of the Order of Merit for his decade of service as NATO Secretary-General.

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.