Today the European Parliament approved José Manuel Barroso as President of the European Commission.

The Swedish Presidency welcomes the European Parliament’s approval of Barroso by a wide majority as President of the Commission.

”I am pleased to see that the European Parliament today approved the Council’s unanimous nomination of José Manuel Barroso as President of the Commission”, said European Council President Fredrik Reinfeldt.

”I want to congratulate José Manuel Barroso on his formal nomination. This gives us the stability needed for fully focusing on important challenges such as the economic crisis and climate change. It is also important for the continuing preparations for a new Commission.”

Heads of state and government nominated Barroso in June

At the European Council on 18–19 June, the heads of state and government unanimously nominated José Manuel Barroso for a further term of office as President of the Commission.

The nomination means that Barroso can continue to work together with the Council to suggest other members for the Commission. The European Commission will then be approved by the European Parliament and the Council before it takes office.

Prior to his previous term of office 2004–2009, Barroso was Prime Minister of Portugal from 2002 to 2004. He is the author of a number of publications in the areas of political science, international relations and the EU.