Outgoing NATO General Secretary Anders Fogh Rasmussen introduced the new alliance chief, former Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg, as the summit in Wales reached its conclusion.

Stoltenberg takes up office on October 1 at a crucial time as the crisis in Ukraine continues to threaten Europe.

Stoltenberg, commenting on current relations with Russia said it is “a brutal reminder of how important NATO is.”

Jens Stoltenberg came to global attention with his dignified response to the slaughter of 77 people in 2011 by Anders Breivik.

The killing of 69 young political activists on Utoeya Island held particular resonance for the 55-year-old as when young he also attended a camp on the island.

Despite Norways’s reputation for dialogue Stoltenberg increased defence spending during his second term as prime minister.

The Secretary-General designate also backed the decision to bomb Libya.

He is married with two grown up children.