Bulgaria nominates new EU Commissioner

Bulgaria's nominee for the post of European Commissioner resigned this morning following days of speculation over her future.

Rumania Jeleva, who currently occupies the post of Foreign Minister was accused of making a false declaraton of interests last week during her hearing at the European Parlaiemnt.

The majority of the EP's political groups were opposing her nomination and Ms Jeleva's resignation is considered to be a face saving excercise. Bulgarian Prime Minister Borisov has in the meantime informed President Barroso of his intention to suggest Ms Kristalina Georgieva, currently Vice-President of the World Bank, as member of the European Commission replacing Ms Jeleva.

A statement by the European Commission said that President Barroso will meet Ms Georgieva as soon as possible, with a view to considering his agreement to the Bulgarian government's suggestion. "President Barroso welcomes the swift reaction of the Bulgarian Government to this situation. The process of the investiture of the new Commission should now continue and be concluded at the earliest opportunity," the statement said.