Marta Kos addresses the European Parliament: Collaborating with Kyiv and Chisinau on planned reforms
The European Parliament is currently hearing from the European Commissioners-designate. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) want to evaluate the skills, independence, and commitment to European values of the future members of the College of Commissioners, which is set to be led by Ursula von der Leyen. The Foreign Affairs Committee questioned Marta Kos, Slovenian candidate for the Enlargement portfolio. She emphasized that the expansion process has become a priority, particularly due to the situation in Ukraine.
"My goal is to work closely with Kyiv on the planned reforms, maintain momentum in the accession negotiations, and support recovery and reconstruction in coordination with the G7 and other partners. I will ensure that the enlargement negotiations remain a guiding light for this heroic nation. The same principles will apply to our friends in the Republic of Moldova. I also intend to ensure the effective and consistent implementation of the €50 billion Ukraine Facility, the €6 billion Western Balkans Reform and Growth Plan, and the recently proposed €1.8 billion Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova," stated Enlargement Commissioner-designate Marta Kos.
On Wednesday, Andrius Kubilius, the Lithuanian candidate for the defense and space portfolio, presented his case. In his opening statement, Kubilius outlined both the urgent and long-term challenges facing European defense. He urged MEPs to support his efforts to establish a genuine European Defense Union.
"As you know, defense is one of the top priorities for the upcoming Commission. I have been tasked with preparing Europe for extreme military emergencies, particularly in light of potential aggression from Russia against European Union member states. Recent intelligence assessments indicate that Russia may test the unity of the EU and NATO by the end of this decade. Therefore, we urgently need to enhance our community's preparedness for possible military aggression," said Kubilius.
The hearings for the 26 designated commissioners began on Monday and will conclude on November 12, when the six executive vice-presidents of the future Commission, including Romanian candidate Roxana Mînzatu for the "People, Competences, and Training" portfolio, will respond to questions.
Once all hearings are complete, the Conference of Committee Chairs will evaluate the outcomes. The hearings will be officially closed on November 21. Following this, the President-elect of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, will present the full College of Commissioners and its program during a plenary session, followed by a debate with MEPs.
The entire European Commission must receive parliamentary approval, with the vote scheduled for the plenary session in Strasbourg between November 25 and 28.
