Frans Timmermans, currently still European Commissioner in Brussels, would like to become Prime Minister of the Netherlands.
Frans Timmermans, European Commissioner and First Vice-President of the European Commission, has announced that he wants to be the leader of the PVDA/GroenLinks combination list. “It is time that we grow closer together in the Netherlands instead of apart,” Timmermans said in an interview with NOS.
Timmermans, who is known for his hard work and clear opinions on various topics, emphasized that he wants "the Netherlands to regain confidence in itself". Upon his departure as European Commissioner, the Dutch cabinet will be given the opportunity to nominate a new candidate European Commissioner in Brussels.
While Timmermans' name circulated as a possible party leader, other prominent political figures such as Rotterdam mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb, Amsterdam alderman Marjolein Moorman and GroenLinks leader Jesse Klaver have denied their interest in the position. Klaver even indicated that he supported Timmermans in his endeavour. As Timmermans prepares for the political battle in the Netherlands, many point to the challenges he will face. His policies have earned him both praise and criticism, showing that he will have to work to win over both his allies and the opposition.
Italy's Secretary of State for Transport, Matteo Salvini, was critical, tweeting: "He will not be missed. This gentleman has done a lot of damage, we hope the Dutch voters treat him as he deserves".
Although Timmermans has received much praise for his speeches in both Brussels and The Hague, critics have pointed to his large ego and sensitivity to criticism. Italy's Secretary of State for Transport, Matteo Salvini, was critical and tweeted: “He will not be missed. This gentleman has caused a lot of damage, we hope that the Dutch voters will treat him as he deserves”.
His proposal to stop selling new diesel and petrol cars after 2035 is controversial, with some arguing that he is detached from reality. Nevertheless, Timmermans has been a prominent figure in green initiatives on the European stage for years, often assisted by Diederik Samsom.
Timmermans has consistently emphasized sustainable mobility, as evidenced by the ban on cars with internal combustion engines approved by the European Parliament. He also drew attention to the challenges facing the light electric vehicle (LEV) sector, with European regulations hindering innovations such as electric cargo bikes.
Green Deal
Ambitious green proposals and the 'Green Deal' were introduced under the leadership of Timmermans and Samsom. Proponents of green initiatives and sustainable policy in the Netherlands and abroad expressed their support. Many emphasize the importance of his leadership in the 'Green Deal' and the consistent focus on sustainable mobility. Despite the criticism, Timmermans also has considerable support, especially among those who believe in a greener and more sustainable Europe. And that includes GroenLinks leader Jesse Klaver, who is already an important support.
Frans Timmermans has played a crucial role in the implementation of the European Green Deal. The Green Deal is the European Union's flagship initiative to make Europe climate neutral by 2050 and promote a sustainable, green economy. The Green Deal encompasses a wide range of policies and initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, promote the transition to renewable energy and drive sustainability in various sectors of the economy. His role included developing legislation, negotiating with EU member states, working with stakeholders and driving European cooperation to achieve the goals of the Green Deal.
After a career in diplomacy, he became a Member of Parliament for the PvdA. His career had many highlights, including an emotional speech at the United Nations about the tragedy of flight MH17 and various cabinets. With Timmermans' announcement, the Netherlands awaits the next steps in the political arena and their possible impact at both national and European level.
