The UK is backing Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte to be the next head of NATO, MEZIESBLOG understands.
Jens Stoltenberg, who has been secretary general of the alliance since 2014, is expected to step down this year after repeatedly having his time in charge extended.
All allies have to agree on his successor in what is typically a closed-door process, making it significant that the UK has chosen publicly to back a potential candidate.
A foreign office source said that the UK believes Mr Rutte, a veteran politician, would be the ideal person to lead the alliance at a time when NATO is working hard to bolster its defences to deter Russian aggression.
“The UK strongly backs Dutch PM Mark Rutte to succeed Jens Stoltenberg as NATO secretary general,” a UK official said.
“Rutte is well-respected across the alliance, has serious defence and security credentials, and will ensure that the alliance remains strong and ready to defend and deter.”
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