The Hague, Netherlands 22 Sept. 2003

Statement by NATO Secretary General designate Mr Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands Mr Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, is deeply honoured that the North Atlantic Council has decided to appoint him as the next Secretary General of NATO. The appointment can also be considered a sign of appreciation for the constructive approach taken by the Netherlands both to strengthening the transatlantic relationship and to developing a European Security and Defence Policy as an indispensable complement to the Alliance's security policy. On the occasion of his appointment, Mr De Hoop Scheffer would like to pay a special tribute to NATO's current Secretary General, Lord Robertson, who, on 1 January 2004, will pass on the reins of an efficient and top-quality organisation that is prepared to meet the security challenges of the 21st century.