NATO chief congratulates Barack Obama

NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer Tuesday congratulated Barack Obama on his inauguration as the new president of the United States.

"President Obama takes up his responsibilities at a time when the international community faces great challenges, but also great opportunities to build a safer, more secure world. The NATO Allies, including the United States, stand together to help reach that goal," said de Hoop Scheffer.

"The United States has played a leading role within NATO since the alliance was founded in 1949. I have no doubt that President Obama will carry on that tradition," he said.

NATO, including the United States, are fighting a war in Afghanistan.

BBC News

NATO chief congratulates Obama on inauguration Xinhua - 3 hours ago BRUSSELS, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer on Tuesday congratulated Barack Obama on his inauguration as the new US president. Video: Afghanistan struggles with unemployment - 20 Jan 09 AlJazeeraEnglish Afghanistan seeks control over NATO deployments The Associated Press