OSLO, Norway (AP) Former NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg announced on Tuesday that he will be returning to the Norwegian government as the new Minister of Finance. This decision marks his return to national politics after a significant tenure leading NATO, which lasted from 2014 until shortly before he passed the role to current Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the beginning of October 2023.
During his time at NATO, Stoltenberg's tenure was extended multiple times, primarily to maintain stability amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. His extended service at NATO meant that he was unable to assume a previously anticipated position as the head of Norway's central bank. Now, with his return to domestic politics, Stoltenberg aims to address the financial challenges facing Norway.
The timing of Stoltenberg's appointment coincides with a significant political shift in Norway, as the country's governing coalition faced a split last week. The junior partner in the coalition, the Center Party, announced its departure, necessitating the reshuffling of several Cabinet positions. Current Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, who also leads Stoltenberg's center-left Labor Party, was left with the critical task of filling these vacancies, including that of the outgoing Finance Minister, Trygve Slagsvold Vedum, the leader of the Center Party.
On Tuesday in Oslo, Stoltenberg appeared alongside Prime Minister Gahr Støre at an event where the latter was presenting his newly formed Cabinet. However, Støre did not explicitly announce Stoltenberg’s new role during this presentation, which may have been an attempt to keep the focus on the broader team changes rather than on individual appointments.
In a formal statement released by the Munich Security Conference, an organization he was expected to lead, Stoltenberg expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve his country at such a critical juncture. He conveyed his appreciation for Prime Minister Støre's invitation and said, "I have decided to accept Prime Minister Støre’s request to serve as his Minister of Finance." He emphasized the importance of addressing current national challenges and noted his intention to return to the Munich Security Conference and fulfill his other responsibilities once his term in the Finance Ministry concludes.
This development in Norwegian politics underscores both Stoltenberg's prominent role on an international stage and his commitment to public service in Norway. His extensive experience at NATO, especially during tumultuous times, may provide valuable perspective as he steps into the crucial role of Finance Minister, tasked with overseeing Norway's fiscal policies amidst evolving economic conditions.
