Brussels (WAM): Outgoing NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg cautioned the United States and Europe against “isolationism” in his parting speech on Thursday.
“Focusing on short-sighted national interests over long-term cooperation will not serve us well. Isolationism will not keep anyone safe,” said Stoltenberg as quoted by AFP.
“During my time as secretary general, the relevance of NATO has been questioned. The alliance has been described as divided, obsolete, braindead,” Stoltenberg added.
“But the reality is that NATO is strong, united, and more important than ever.”
Stoltenberg is set to hand over the reins at the Western military alliance to former Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte on October 1 after a decade at the helm.