The European Council, i.e. the meeting of the 28 Heads of State or Government, plays an important role in this process of appointments. In 2019, it will elect the President of the European Council, appoint a candidate for the post of President of the European Commission, appoint the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and take a decision on the President of the European Central Bank. These senior officials will take up their duties before the end of the year.
After long and intense negotiations, the following candidates have obtained the support of the European Council:
• President of the European Commission: Ursula von der Leyen (DE / EPP)
• High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs: Josep Borell (ES / PES)
• President of the European Central Bank: Christine Lagarde (FR / EPP)
It is now up to the President of the European Council to submit the nominations to the European Parliament, in accordance with the provisions of the Treaties.