Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier puts himself out of contention for EU presidency
The EU's chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, has put himself out of the running to become the centre-right's candidate to replace departing Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the European Commission.
Barnier's announcement ends a protracted period of speculation suggesting that he would throw his hat into the ring for the role of Spitzenkandidat in the European People's Party.
The French politician tweeted a letter announcing his decision to stay out of the race to Joseph Dall, president of the EPP, saying he wanted to stay and finish the Brexit negotiations.
I have decided today not to run for the nomination as the @EPP’s European elections lead campaigner at #EPPHelsinki.
It is my duty and responsibility to continue the #Brexit negotiations right to the end. pic.twitter.com/yc3g5T3aTQ
— Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) September 28, 2018
“I have decided today not to run for the nomination as the EPP’s European elections lead candidate ,” he said on.He said that he would continue his leading role in the Brexit negotiation.
“We are in the final stretch of a serious and complex negotiation on the orderly withdrawal of the United Kingdom. It is my duty to remain engaged with all my energy and determination."
He also added in a handwritten segment on the letter that he remained committed to what he saw as the values of the European Union.
“Of course, I will remain committed in the future and available to defend our values and renew the European project together,” Barnier said.
The only candidate who has declared his interest in the EPP's nomination is Manfred Weber, the leader of the party in the European Parliament since 2014.
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However, it is unlikely he will be the only candidate competing for the role, with former Finnish Prime Minister Alexander Stubb also rumoured to be contemplating a run.
The group is highly influential within Brussels, and the continental party's nominee is expected to be a leading contender for the role, which is arguably the most powerful post in Brussels.
The news come as something of a disappointment to several high profile Brussels politicians, who have praised his performance as Brexit chief. France’s main centre-right party, Les Républicains, had publicly stated they wanted Barnier to be the nominee earlier last week.
The new president will take over the European Comission in November 2019.