European Commission president-elect Ursula von der Leyen voiced confidence in economy commissioner-delegate Paolo Gentiloni on Wednesday, saying he could be relied on to implement the United Nations' sustainable development goals.
"We in the European Union must rediscover our sustainable competitiveness," von der Leyen told the European Parliament before a vote on the incoming EU executive that is due to take office on 1 December.
"Every member state has committed to attaining the UN's sustainable development goals. In this spirit, Paolo Gentilon will oversee this process. He believes in it. And I believe in him," von der Leyen said.
In her address to the European Parliament, von der Leyen urged lawmakers to approve her team and "give Europe a new start" with a focus on climate change and technology.
The incoming 27-strong commission contains 12 women - including von der Leyen - after weeks of stumbling over nominees grilled by MEPs.
