EU leaders are discussing who should be appointed to the most influential jobs in Brussels and the bloc’s strategic path over the next five years. Euronews brings you the latest news, analysis and reactions.
A highly-anticipated gathering of EU leaders has kicked off in Brussels, where a preliminary deal on appointments to the EU’s top jobs could emerge.
It’s the first time the leaders meet physically since the European elections, which saw European voters veer slightly to the right. Now, leaders face the delicate task of divvying up the roles of European Commission president, European Council president and High Representative for Foreign Affairs.
Current Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen is in pole position to secure a second term at the EU executive’s helm, and will therefore have to recuse herself from the meeting when leaders broach the subject of her possible re-appointment.
For the other two job roles, the names of former Portuguese premier António Costa (for the European Council) and Estonian prime minister Kaja Kallas (for the High Representative) are being floated.
Upon arrival, several leaders noted an emerging consensus for von der Leyen, whose European People’s Party (EPP) won a clear victory at the European elections. The leaders of the eastern states of Finland and Poland have also backed Kallas’ candidacy for the top diplomatic role.
Despite Costa still being under investigation in a corruption case, he has secured the firm backing of his successor, Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.
While a political agreement could emerge tonight, it would have to be confirmed at the next formal EU summit, scheduled for 27-28 June.