Stéphane Séjourné urged the European Parliament to expedite progress as key hearings for new Commission candidates unfold in Brussels. He emphasizes the importance of his role in industrial strategy amid U.S.-China trade tensions. Candidates for vice-presidential roles are being evaluated, with Kaja Kallas advocating for Ukraine and Raffaele Fitto stressing his commitment to Europe. Challenges loom for Séjourné, particularly regarding the controversial EU-Mercosur trade agreement, while upcoming votes will shape the new executive team’s direction.
Europe’s Urgent Need for Progress
As the French representative Stéphane Séjourné addressed the European Parliament, he emphasized the critical need for Europe to accelerate its efforts or risk falling behind. This pivotal moment marks the commencement of a series of hearings where the influential figures of the new Commission are presented in Brussels.
Séjourné, aligned with President Macron, aims to prove his capability in managing the substantial portfolio focused on industrial strategy. This role is particularly vital given the ongoing trade tensions with China and the uncertainty surrounding potential tariff increases from the U.S. following Donald Trump’s election.
Key Hearings and Political Dynamics
Throughout the day, members of the European Parliament will assess six candidates vying for vice-presidential roles within the new European executive. A vote on their approval or rejection may be delayed until Wednesday, amid extensive behind-the-scenes negotiations.
The morning session featured Kaja Kallas, the new head of European diplomacy and former Prime Minister of Estonia, along with Italian Raffaele Fitto, responsible for territorial cohesion. Kallas emphasized unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that aid must continue “for as long as necessary.” She argued that peace will only be achieved when Russia acknowledges its errors and withdraws its forces.
Fitto highlighted his dedication to Europe rather than any political party or nation, navigating the complexities of his position as a member of the far-right Fratelli d’Italia party, which has sparked considerable debate among left and centrist factions.
As Séjourné begins his tenure, he faces challenges, particularly regarding the contentious EU-Mercosur trade agreement, which France opposes but the Commission appears eager to advance. Dutch MEP Dirk Gotink expressed confidence in Séjourné’s abilities, citing his previous leadership of the Renew group.
The hearings for other nominees, including Roxana Minzatu for social affairs and Henna Virkkunen for digital sovereignty, are anticipated to be relatively straightforward. However, Spanish candidate Teresa Ribera, who oversees ecological transition, is expected to face significant scrutiny, particularly regarding her stance on nuclear energy.
With critical votes approaching, the dynamics within the European Parliament remain complex, as political factions weigh their strategies ahead of a crucial decision on the new executive team scheduled for early December.