Teresa Ribera appointed to lead climate and competition in EU Commission

Teresa Ribera, the Minister for Ecological Transition in Spain, has been appointed as the executive vice-president for Clean, Fair, and Competitive Transition, as well as the head of Competition in the European Commission. This announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen during a press conference in Strasbourg. Ribera's role will focus on guiding Europe towards achieving its climate goals while ensuring a competitive economy. She expressed her commitment to this responsibility, emphasizing the importance of balancing environmental considerations with economic competitiveness. Ribera acknowledged the significant legacy left by her predecessor, Margrethe Vestager, who held the Competition portfolio for ten years. She aims to build on this foundation to create a fair internal market that benefits both industries and consumers. The Spanish government views her appointment as a historic achievement, marking the highest level of influence Spain has ever had in Brussels. Pedro Sánchez, the President of Spain, praised Ribera's leadership and determination, highlighting the pride her appointment brings to the country. He noted that her role is crucial for Europe and reflects Spain's growing influence in EU affairs. Ribera's responsibilities will include regulating market practices to prevent anti-competitive behavior and ensuring that European companies remain competitive on a global scale. The appointment is seen as a significant success for Spain, as Ribera is entrusted with key policies aimed at structural transformation in the EU. Her nomination counters attempts by the opposition to limit her portfolio, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing climate and energy issues at the European level.