Lto third woman in the history of the European Parliament e the youngest ever to lead the institution. He takes the place of David Sassoli, who passed away a few days ago.
Maltese politics Roberta Metsola, a member of the Nationalist Party of the Mediterranean island, was elected President of the European Parliament on the first ballot on his birthday.
Roberta Metsola in the footsteps of David Sassoli
«I will honor David Sassoli as president always fighting for Europe, ”he said in his post-election speech. Then he underlined his commitment to “fight against the anti-European narrative that takes hold so easily “, in which” nationalism and authoritarianism are false solutions that offer no solutions. ” It’s still he urged people “to recover a sense of faith and enthusiasm for our project “.
Roberta Metsola. (Getty Images)
Green Deal and inclusiveness: values to fight for
He then spoke of green deal as “an opportunity for Europe to reinvent itself” because “the fight against climate change is a common destinySince it is impossible to “separate environment and economy”. And also of inclusiveness reminding those who “seek to destroy Europe that this parliament will defend it” as it will defend it from those who threaten them “women and LGBT citizens“.
And recalling his predecessor, he added: «David was a fighter for Europe. He believed in the power of Europe. Thanks David. I feel honored by the responsibility you entrust to me. I promise that I will do my best to work for the benefit of all citizens. “
Greetings to Roberta Metsola from Mattarella
The announcement of the election of Metsola was greeted by a long applause from the hemicycle. Congratulations from the President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella. “Italy looks with unchanged confidence at the central, irreplaceable role that the Strasbourg Assembly plays in the process of continental integration.
At the height of the European political debate, under your leadership the parliament – I am sure – will continue to do its utmost to ensure that the highest common ideals find concrete applications at the service of EU citizens. In this spirit, and in memory of the late President Sassoli, I renew your cordial congratulations and offer you my happy birthday ”.
Ursula von der Leyen: “Your work will inspire everyone”
Greetings also from the president of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen: «Your hard work and your determination will be an inspiration for all of us. We will work closely for recovery and for a green, digital, and bright European future“.
The vote, due to the resurgence of Covid infections, it took place in hybrid, partly in the Chamber and partly remotely. There were three candidates: Roberta Metsola of the Ppe, Alice Bah Kuhnke of the Verdi and Sira Rigo of Gue.
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