Ekaterina Zaharieva leads startups and innovation in new EU Commission
- Ursula von der Leyen announced Ekaterina Zaharieva as the new Bulgarian EU Commissioner for startups, research, and innovation during a press conference in Strasbourg.
- Zaharieva acknowledged the significant responsibility of her role, emphasizing the need to prioritize research and innovation in the EU economy.
- The appointment is seen as a recognition of Bulgaria's contributions in these fields and is expected to enhance the EU's competitiveness and digitalization efforts.
Ekaterina Zaharieva has been appointed as the new Bulgarian EU Commissioner responsible for startups, research, and innovation. This announcement was made by Ursula von der Leyen during a press conference in Strasbourg, where she outlined the structure of the upcoming European Commission. The new Commission will consist of 27 members, including 11 women, and is set to take office on November 1, 2024. Zaharieva's portfolio is considered crucial for the future, focusing on enhancing competitiveness, security, and digitalization within the EU. Zaharieva expressed her awareness of the immense responsibility that comes with her new role, emphasizing the importance of placing research, innovation, science, and technology at the core of the European economy. Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the need for increased investment in priority sectors and innovations, indicating that Zaharieva will play a significant role in driving these initiatives forward. The current Bulgarian EU Commissioner, Iliana Ivanova, congratulated Zaharieva on social media, recognizing the trust placed in her and the strategic importance of her portfolio. Ivanova noted that this appointment reflects not only Zaharieva's competence but also Bulgaria's contributions and achievements in the fields of innovation and research. As the new European Commission prepares for its official start, the focus will be on fostering an environment conducive to startups and innovation, which are seen as vital for the EU's future economic landscape. The upcoming vote by the European Parliament will finalize the appointments, paving the way for the new Commission's agenda.