Unveiling his new team Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the new European Commission said that his new organisation would be streamlined to focus on tackling the big political challenges Europe is facing: getting people back to work in decent jobs, triggering more investment, making sure banks lend to the real economy again, creating a connected digital market, a credible foreign policy and ensuring Europe stands on its own feet when it comes to energy security.

"In these unprecedented times, Europe's citizens expect us to deliver,” he said. “After years of economic hardship and often painful reforms, Europeans expect a performing economy, sustainable jobs, more social protection, safer borders, energy security and digital opportunities. We have to be open to change. We have to show that the Commission can change.”

Referring to his new team he said that they will work together in a spirit of collegiality and mutual dependence.  “I want to overcome silo-mentalities and introduce a new collaborative way of working in areas where Europe can really make a difference."

Photo: Jean-Claude Juncker