Another French general takes over Nato post in US

NORFOLK (AFP) - French General Jean-Paul Palomeros took over as one of North Atlantic Treaty Organisation's (Nato) top commanders on Friday, facing the task of adapting the transatlantic alliance to new threats despite budget pressures.

Gen Palomeros acknowledged he faced a daunting assignment at a ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia, home to one of Nato's three strategic commands, along with Brussels and Mons in Belgium.

"Secretary-General, the challenges that you have just outlined are considerable," said Gen Palomeros, referring to remarks by Nato chief Anders Fogh Rasmussen.

By taking charge of allied transformation command, the former chief of staff of the French air force becomes the highest-ranking French officer in Nato.