Romanian president to run for NATO chief

"We find ourselves in a security context where I believe it is time for Romania to take an even greater responsibility within the Euro-Atlantic leadership structures. I have decided to compete for the position of NATO Secretary-General, and I assume this candidacy on behalf of Romania with full responsibility," Iohannis said in a statement on Tuesday.

The term of office of the incumbent NATO chief, Jens Stoltenberg, is set to expire in October.

Iohannis emphasised the need for a balanced, powerful, and influential representation of NATO allies in Eastern Europe. "Moreover, I believe that NATO needs a renewed perspective on its mission," the Romanian president said.

Even though his presidential term will expire in December, Iohannis did not mention any intention to shorten it. The elections for NATO leadership will take place in October.

The NATO Secretary General is a senior political figure from a NATO member country, appointed by member states for a four-year term. The selection is carried out through informal diplomatic consultations among member countries which put forward candidates for the post.

Besides Iohannis, Estonian prime minister Kaja Kallas, Latvian foreign minister Krisjanis Karins and Dutch prime minister Mark Rutte have all stated they want the job, according to Deutsche Welle.