Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has unveiled a new team for her second term, placing prominent figures from France, Italy, and Spain in key positions, Bloomberg reports.
This shakeup was announced on Tuesday.
The most notable appointments include:
• Thierry Breton, the French Minister of the Economy and Finance, will become Executive Vice President for the Digital Economy. Breton, known for his pro-business stance, will be tasked with leading the EU’s efforts in implementing the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, key pieces of legislation aimed at regulating the digital space, according to the report.
• Paolo Gentiloni, the Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, will continue in his role as Commissioner for the Economy. Gentiloni, renowned for his international experience, will navigate the EU through the ongoing energy crisis and the need to foster economic growth, a challenging task given the uncertain global economic landscape, the news agency says.
• Nadia Calviño, the Spanish Minister of Economy and Finance, will become Commissioner for the Economy and Financial Affairs. Calviño, a veteran economist, will play a pivotal role in managing the EU’s budget and coordinating fiscal policies, crucial areas as the EU grapples with economic headwinds, the report read.
The inclusion of these high-profile figures from France, Italy, and Spain marks a serious shift in the balance of power within the EU.
The new team reflects a renewed emphasis on the EU’s core priorities, including:
• Climate Change: The EU has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, a goal requiring ambitious action. The new team will be instrumental in implementing these goals and coordinating EU-wide efforts to combat climate change.
• Economic Competitiveness: The EU faces economic challenges, including the energy crisis, inflation, and slowing growth. The new team will be responsible for managing the EU’s budget, coordinating fiscal policies, and promoting economic growth, key areas requiring strategic decision-making in the face of global economic uncertainty.
• Digital Transformation: The EU is undergoing a digital transformation, and the new team will play a key role in shaping EU digital policies, encouraging innovation, and ensuring a level playing field for businesses in the digital age.
