Kostas Kadis will face MEPs today in a crucial hearing to secure his nomination as EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, scheduled for 14:30 Brussels time.
Brussels sources indicate Kadis will emphasise his pro-European outlook and willingness to cooperate with relevant parliamentary committees.
The hearing will be primarily conducted by the PESH fisheries committee, with limited participation from the environment committee.
The fisheries portfolio is particularly significant for several EU member states, including Spain, Portugal, and France, where the sector plays a crucial economic role.
Kadis is expected to address two conflicting approaches to ocean fishing: unrestricted fishing versus sustainable practices.
Key challenges likely to arise during the three-hour hearing include the EU’s fishing agreement with Norway, post-Brexit arrangements with the UK, and the green agenda for ocean protection.
Sources suggest Kadis may also face questions about recent Politico reports regarding the Pentakomo waste management facility.
The nominee enjoys support from the European People’s Party and Cypriot MEPs across political groups.
Brussels observers note an apparent informal agreement among parliamentary political forces suggesting most commissioner candidates are likely to receive approval, with sources citing concerns that rejecting any nominee could trigger broader political complications.
The hearing will begin with a 15-minute opening statement from Kadis, followed by questions from MEPs.
The committee coordinators will conduct their final assessment after the session, which is chaired by Spanish MEP Carmen Crespo Díaz.
