Greek Commissioner resigns
Greek commissioner Anna Diamantopoulou (in charge of employment and social affairs) today officially handed her letter of resignation to Commission President Romano Prodi.
Ms Diamantopoulou took a period of unpaid leave to stand in the Greek elections, which took place last Sunday (7 March). Her party, the Socialists, lost the election, but she will remain involved in Greek politics as a member of the parliament for the opposition.
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In theory, she could have stayed on until the end of the mandate in October, but has chosen to resign officially.
Commission spokesman Reijo Kemppinen told journalists today that the letter "thanks the President and her colleagues for the years she has had the chance to work with them for the benefit of Europe here".
She will be replaced as commissioner by 62 year old lawyer and economist Stavros Dimas.
Mr Dimas has served in Greek governments notably as trade, industry and agriculture minister. He has also worked for a Wall Street law firm and at the World Bank.
"He is a very experienced politician ... he also has extensive knowledge of European affairs", said Mr Kemppinen.
His appointment needs to be approved by the European Council, which could happen as early as tomorrow (11 March). He will be free to take up his post soon afterwards.