With the extended term of Jaap de Hoop Scheffer as NATO Secretary General approaching its end, speculations have started concerning the Dutchman's potential successor.

Report by Slawek Szefs.

One of the theories forged for the occasion speaks of a gesture towards new members of the Alliance to underline their importance and secure greater dedication through nominating a representative of one of those countries to head the world's most powerful military bloc.

Given the complicated international situation and NATO engagement - both direct and indirect - in various global conflicts and tensions, a great deal of competence and experience would be required from a potential candidate to the post.

The Economist, following opinions of the German Der Spiegel and The International Herald Tribune, considers Poland's foreign minister Radoslaw Sikorski a top candidate for the next NATO chief.