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His 14 year-stint at the top of European politics has earned him a distinguished record of domestic and international achievements.

Mark Rutte, born in The Hague in 1967, embarked on a career in business after leaving university and held several positions at Unilever.

His career in Dutch politics started in 2002, and four years later – as leader of the VVD party – he became prime minister.

During his tenure, he steered the Netherlands through times of significant national and global upheaval. From economic crisis, to the coronavirus pandemic.

And now, as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s 14th Secretary General, he faces his next challenge – leading Europe’s response to recent Russia-US talks over Ukraine.

Mark Coles takes a closer look at Mark Rutte.

Production Team

Producers: Sally Abrahams, Mantej Deol, Chloe Scannapieco
Editor: Ben Mundy
Sound: Neil Churchill
Production Co-ordinators: Maria Ogundele and Sabine Schereck

Credits
Joint press conference by NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte with the President of Slovakia, Peter Pellegrini, 20 Feb. 2025
Mark Rutte cycles away from his office, on his last day as Prime Minister of the Netherlands, tv47
Yes Minister, ´óÏó´«Ã½ TV, Comedy Greats

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