US President Joe Biden honored NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg with the Presidential Medal of Freedom during the alliance's 75th-anniversary celebration at the NATO summit. Biden praised Stoltenberg for his integrity, intellectual rigor, and diplomatic skills, highlighting his ability to navigate crises and work with leaders from diverse political backgrounds.
Biden's decision to extend Stoltenberg's tenure as NATO secretary general by an additional year was influenced by Russia's actions in Ukraine. Stoltenberg, a former Norwegian prime minister, has held the position since 2014 and played a crucial role in strengthening and energizing the alliance.
In his remarks, Biden acknowledged Stoltenberg's commitment to NATO's mission and his willingness to prioritize the collective security of member countries. The President expressed gratitude for Stoltenberg's dedication, noting that his leadership has contributed to making NATO more robust and forward-thinking.
Stoltenberg's swift response to the Russian war in Ukraine underscored his unwavering commitment to upholding NATO's values and principles. Biden commended Stoltenberg for his decisive actions during challenging times, emphasizing the positive impact of his leadership on global security.
As NATO continues to address evolving security threats and geopolitical challenges, Stoltenberg's legacy as secretary general will endure, benefiting billions of people worldwide. Biden's recognition of Stoltenberg's contributions reaffirms the importance of strong leadership within the alliance and the enduring partnership between the United States and NATO.
