Spain Nominates Teresa Ribera for EU Commissioner

The Spanish government has officially proposed Teresa Ribera, the current Minister for Ecological Transition, as its candidate for the European Commission under Ursula von der Leyen's leadership for the 2024-2027 term. Ribera, who has been a prominent figure in Spain's green agenda since 2018, expressed her honor at being nominated and emphasized the need for Europe to address pressing challenges. Her candidacy comes just before the August 30 deadline set by von der Leyen, and Ribera is seen as a strong candidate for a significant portfolio related to climate action and energy policies. Ribera's previous experience includes negotiating the Iberian gas exception, highlighting her expertise in energy matters. The Spanish government and the Socialist Party aim to secure a broader portfolio for Ribera, potentially positioning her for a vice presidency within the Commission. The final distribution of roles will be determined by von der Leyen, with a decision expected by mid-September, followed by a vote in the European Parliament in October.