Major European portfolio for Romania

Romanias Social Democrat MEP Corina Cretu has been designated the new EU Commissioner for Regional Policy

Valentin Țigău, 11.09.2014, 13:08

European Commission president elect Jean-Claude Juncker on Wednesday made public the list of EU Commissioners for the 2014-2019 period. Romanian Social Democrat MEP Corina Cretu was appointed as the new EU Commissioner for Regional Policy. The main priority of her term in office will be economic growth. Jean-Claude Juncker said the start of the new Commission provides an exceptional opportunity, but also an obligation, to make a fresh start, to address the difficult geo-political situation and strengthen economic recovery in Europe.

With a budget worth 350 billion euros for the 2014-2020 financial framework, regional policy will be primarily focusing on investment, making more jobs available, stepping up competitiveness, boosting economic growth, increasing the quality of life and stimulating sustainable development.

The EU’s regional policy is also aimed at helping less developed regions. The previous holder of this office, Johannes Hahn of Austria focused on reducing economic, social and territorial differences between Europe’s regions. Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta believes this portfolio is essential for the future of the European Commission:

“It means recognition for Romania’s role in the European Union, the fact that we have strong allies and partners and that we, for our part, can act as a country who is worthy of its affiliation to the European Union and its values”.

Klaus Johannis, the co-chairman of the Christian-Liberal Alliance, in opposition, also noted that being granted this portfolio is a step forward for Romania:

“It’s a great achievement for Romania, signalling Romania’s strong position within the European Union. It’s a result which I think we can build on”.

The leader of the People’s Movement Party, in opposition, Elena Udrea also hailed the new appointment:

“This portfolio is an achievement, and I am particularly happy it was given to a woman”.

Corina Cretu will next be heard by the Parliament in Bucharest for confirmation.