During a recent informal summit, leaders of the European Union member states were unable to come to an agreement on filling the top four positions in the EU. These positions include the President of the European Commission, Speaker of the European Parliament, President of the European Council, and High Representative of the EU’s foreign and security policy. Despite some disappointment from Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, he remained hopeful that decisions would be made at the official summit scheduled for next week.
During the discussions, names such as Ursula von der Leyen, Antonio Costa, Roberta Metsola, and Kaja Kallas were put forward for these positions. Orpo emphasized that it was important to form an overall package and create trust between parties so that the parliament would accept any solution that was reached. The general spirit at the meeting was focused on completing this appointment process as soon as possible along with developing a strategic agenda for the EU.
The official EU summit is set to take place in Brussels next week where leaders hope to establish more trust between different groups in parliament. Orpo acknowledged that negotiations are ongoing and mentioned rumors about one group wanting half of their term as President of Europe Council. He highlighted how EPP has strengthened its position in parliament and its focus on working with parties who share similar values regarding Europe’s development, support for Ukraine and respect for rule of law.
Orpo did not comment on rumors about EPP’s intentions but reiterated his own party’s stance on working with moderate middle groups who aligned with these values. He emphasized clearly that no one at heads table wanted to cooperate with far-right groups like Identity and Democracy group in EP.
