Regarding
the choice of Jean-Claude Juncker’s successor, the informal consultations
between the leaders have yet to point towards a consensus.
There
was a dinner last Friday, here in Brussels, that brought together six Prime
Ministers, representing the three main European political families: the centre-right,
the liberals and the social-democrats. It did not go very far, except for
showing that Manfred Weber, the centre-right candidate, has very little chances
of getting the European Commission Presidency. He is perceived as not belonging
to the circle of top leaders, Prime Ministers or former Presidents.
Today
we learned that President Macron is pushing for Chancellor Angela Merkel as the
best choice. But the Chancellor is not ready to move to Brussels. Her party is
losing ground in Germany and she wants to remain focused on recovering the support
of the German voters.
We
never know, of course.
But
we know that the European Commission needs a strong and clear-minded leader.
One that can be respected by the heads of State and Government and projects an
image that inspires trust and hope among the citizens of Europe. Also, that can
talk to Presidents Trump, Putin, or Xi, with the necessary standing. He or she
must be a heavyweight. Therefore, the choice is a very delicate matter.
Some
people might think that in the end what matters is Emmanuel Macron’s or Angela
Merkel’s opinion. That’s certainly not the case this time. Every national
leader’s opinion matter. The current climate must recognise that fact. The
selection must convince everyone.
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