Four key candidates for leadership positions in the EU are nearly agreed upon. This process is happening unusually quickly, informs Politico.
According to the source, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to serve a second term as President of the European Commission.
It is noted that the European People's Party, which remains the largest political force after the European elections, wants to ensure a second five-year mandate for von der Leyen.
Former Prime Minister of Portugal António Costa is the frontrunner for the position of President of the European Council, currently held by Charles Michel.
However, as noted in the source, the issue is not yet settled, as Costa's candidacy could still be complicated by "legal issues" due to the announcement by the prosecutor's office of suspicion of abuse of influence last year.
According to media reports, the current President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, will receive another term of two and a half years in this position. However, the final decision on this matter rests with the Parliament itself, not the EU leaders.
The main candidate for the High Representative for Foreign Affairs position, currently held by Josep Borrell, is Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas.
Politico added that the appointment plan is expected to be finalized during an informal dinner scheduled for the bloc's leaders on June 17.
Top positions in the EU
President of the European Council Charles Michel has proposed excluding European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen from the meeting on June 17, where heads of state and government will discuss the top positions in the EU.