Šefčovič promises to keep jobs in Europe by strengthening industry

“I’m particularly glad to hear that Mr Šefčovič took the EPP Group’s agenda on board. Among other things, he committed to diversify sources of energy, generate less regulation and strengthen industry’s competitiveness in order to keep jobs in Europe,” said Krišjānis Kariņš MEP, EPP Group Spokesman on the Industry, Research and Energy Committee, after today's hearing of Maroš Šefčovič, designated to the post of Vice-President in charge of Energy Union.

"Mr Šefčovič showed quite a lot of knowledge after only five days of preparation. He supported the commitment of Jean-Claude Juncker and Miguel Arias Cañete to 30% energy efficiency as a binding target for 2030. His answers on the further development of the Eco-Design Directive were balanced. I also like his positive outlook for the climate conference in Paris," said Peter Liese MEP, who is the EPP Group Spokesperson in the European Parliament's Environment Committee.

“We expect the Vice-President of the Commission to stand on Europe’s side and actively fight against Europe’s dependency on external sources of energy. The EPP Group expects Mr Šefčovič to deliver on his promise to increase energy diversification, by committing to the Southern Corridor gas pipeline. I also welcome his clear statement criticising Russia’s use of gas supply as a political weapon. As Vice-President, I expect him to provide a long-term strategy on energy diversification,” Kariņš added.