DAVOS, Jan 21 (KUNA) -- NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Wednesday underscored the central role of the transatlantic alliance in safeguarding the security of both Europe and North America, warning at the same time of escalating strategic competition in the Arctic region.
Speaking during a panel discussion on European defence at the World Economic Forum's annual meeting in Davos alongside Finnish President Alexander Stubb, Rutte said "NATO is crucial not only for the defense of Europe but also for the defense of the United States," adding that "For the United States to stay safe you need a safe Arctic, a safe Atlantic and a safe Europe." Rutte emphasized the importance of strengthening diplomatic solutions to mitigate tensions between alliance members and prevent escalation, citing the sensitive issue of Greenland.
Rutte welcomed the presence of US President Donald Trump, saying the alliance had taken decisive steps, partly due to his leadership. "Without him, we would not have taken the key decisions needed to move our economy forward," he said.
Rutte warned that the region is gaining strategic importance as sea lanes open and Russian and Chinese activity increases.
He noted that seven of the eight Arctic states are NATO members; Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Canada and the United States, with Russia being the only Arctic country outside the alliance, describing China as an increasingly active "ninth actor" in the region.
He stressed "We know that China and Russia are increasingly active in the Arctic. We have to protect the Arctic against Russian and Chinese influence." He confirmed that NATO has decided to step up its defensive efforts in the Arctic, implementing decisions taken by alliance ambassadors last September to ensure collective defence and protect member states' interests in the region.
For his part Finnish President Alexander Stubb said Europe is capable of defending itself even without the United States, stressing the importance of reinforcing security in the Arctic amid President Trump's expressed interest in Greenland.
Stubb also voiced confidence in reaching a consensual path forward, describing relations with Washington as "good and stable." This came as tensions rise over President Trump's pressure regarding Greenland and his threats to impose additional tariffs on eight European countries, including Finland. (end) imk.hb