President Klaus Iohannis is running for NATO Secretary General

President Klaus Iohannis is running for NATO Secretary General - that is the official announcement he made this afternoon in a statement from the Cotroceni Palace, arguing that it is time for Romania, which has been a member of NATO for 20 years, to assume greater responsibility within the Euro-Atlantic leadership structures.

In a complicated security context, Romania has proven that it is a pillar of stability in the region, President Klaus Iohannis said, adding that the time has come for Romania to assume even greater responsibility within Euro-Atlantic leadership structures.

It is a legitimate aspiration of a country with a deep understanding of the current security situation unbalanced by Russia's war against Ukraine, the head of state said, adding that NATO needs a renewed perspective on its mission.

The Romanian President thus announced his decision to enter the race for the post of Secretary General of the North Atlantic Alliance.

Klaus Iohannis: I am assuming this candidacy on behalf of Romania, with full responsibility, and this decision is based on Romania's performance, the experience I have gained during my two terms as President of Romania, my deep understanding of the challenges facing NATO, Europe and especially our region, and my firm commitment to NATO's fundamental values and objectives.

Eastern Europe has a valuable contribution to the decisions taken in NATO, President Klaus Iohannis added, noting that the Alliance will be able to take the best decisions with a balanced, strong and influential representation from this region.

The name of Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has also been put forward for NATO leadership, and the United States, France, Germany and the United Kingdom have already announced their support for him. Estonia's premier, Kaja Kallas, has also admitted her interest in becoming secretary-general of the North Atlantic Alliance.

Translated by: Radu Matei