Dombrovskis Takes Dual Role in New European Commission Focused on Economic Growth and Simplification
The transition period has been long enough. The European Parliament elections were in June, and the Commission President was confirmed in July. This lengthy transition period will now end, allowing work to begin in December, said Dombrovskis.
In the new European Commission, Dombrovskis will hold a dual role. He will be the Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, and he will also oversee policy implementation and simplification. He will report directly to von der Leyen.
Dombrovskis stated, “I will continue to work on issues related to the European Union’s economy and competitiveness, which I am currently addressing. A new responsibility will be simplification, or reducing administrative burdens. This will be one of the new Commission’s priorities, and I will coordinate this process across all areas of responsibility for the commissioners.”
How will Valdis Dombrovskis address administrative burdens within the EU during his tenure?
Interview with Valdis Dombrovskis: New Horizons for the European Commission
As the commencement of the new European Commission approaches, Valdis Dombrovskis, the newly appointed Commissioner for Economy and Productivity, shared his insights on the challenges and priorities that lie ahead. We sat down with him to discuss his dual role and the significance of the transition period that has led to this moment.
Interviewer: Mr. Dombrovskis, with the European Parliament elections behind us and the new Commission set to start on December 1, how do you feel about the transition period coming to an end?
Dombrovskis: The transition period has indeed been lengthy, but it has allowed for a thorough evaluation and careful selection of our new team. Now, as we prepare to take office, I believe this time has been crucial for laying a strong foundation for our upcoming work.
Interviewer: You mentioned that your role encompasses both economy and productivity as well as policy implementation and simplification. Can you expand on what simplification will entail?
Dombrovskis: Certainly. Simplification means reducing the administrative burdens that often hinder productivity within the EU. My goal is to streamline processes across various sectors while ensuring that we maintain our commitment to transparency and accountability. I will coordinate efforts among all commissioners to ensure that simplification becomes a priority in every area of responsibility.
Interviewer: The hearings for potential commissioners have just concluded. What did you observe about the candidates and their suitability for their roles?
Dombrovskis: The hearings were intense but fruitful. Each candidate demonstrated a strong commitment to their respective fields and a clear understanding of the challenges facing the EU. The scrutiny they faced from members of the European Parliament reflects the importance of having a competent and dedicated Commission that will effectively represent the interests of EU citizens.
Interviewer: Looking forward, what do you see as your immediate priorities upon taking office?
Dombrovskis: My immediate priorities will include fostering economic growth and enhancing the EU’s competitiveness on the global stage. Additionally, I plan to begin implementing our simplification agenda right away, which involves engaging with stakeholders to identify and dismantle unnecessary barriers that impede progress.
Interviewer: With the new Commission starting its duties soon, what message would you like to convey to European citizens regarding the upcoming changes?
Dombrovskis: I want citizens to know that we are committed to making the EU more efficient and responsive to their needs. The new Commission will focus on creating a competitive environment that benefits everyone. We are all invested in a Europe that not only stands strong economically but also simplifies procedures for businesses and individuals alike.
As Dombrovskis prepares to step into his new role, it is clear that the commitment to economic rejuvenation and simplification will guide the Commission’s direction in the coming years, promising a renewed focus on making the European Union a leader in productivity and innovation.
The European Parliament held hearings for potential commissioners from November 4 to November 12. Members evaluated each candidate’s suitability for the role and their capability to fulfill related responsibilities. Once the Conference of Presidents, which consists of the EP President Roberta Metsola and political group leaders, completes the final assessment and concludes the hearing process, the Parliament will vote on the entire list of candidates.
To approve the European Commission’s members, a majority vote is required. The new Commission is expected to start its duties on December 1, after the Parliament’s election and the official appointment by the European Council with a qualified majority.