Conservative New Democracy (ND) Defence Minister is set to succeed socialist PASOK European Commissioner Maria Damanaki after a letter confirming this appointment was sent to new European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker yesterday. Ms. Damanaki is currently at the helm of the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, but the Greek government hopes to receive a heavier portfolio in matters of concern to Greece.

Mr. Avramopoulos was chosen due to his 20-year experience in politics, especially in the sector of international relations and European affairs. He had served as a career diplomat to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Athens and was also Concul of Greece in Liege and Special Diplomatic Advisor to the President and Leader of the ND party, Costas Mitsotakis during this period.

Senior ND politician Dora Bakoyannis was favored for the post, however Prime Minister Antonis Samaras informed her that she was not the government’s preferred choice. Despite her experience as former foreign affairs minister, Ms. Bakoyannis’ candidacy met with serious opposition from members within the party especially after running against Mr. Samaras to lead the party in 2009 and subsequent expulsion.

Which portfolio for Greece?

The Greek government is eyeing immigration as a possible portfolio so that it can contribute to the protection of European borders and review the “Dublin II” regulation that places the burden of asylum protection on southern European member states. Nonetheless, chances of this seem slim as there could be a wave of reaction by northern European member states if a southern European commissioner is placed in the post. Alternatively, the Greek side is also interested in home affairs and employment issues.

The Greek government denies “rumors” that suggest that the basic choice for Mr. Avramopoulos was the desire to upgrade Greek presence in the new EC lineup as had been asked by Mr. Juncker who arrives in Athens on Monday, August 4, as the starting point of his European tour through the EU28. On this visit, Mr. Juncker will meet with Mr. Samaras and it is believed that he will favorably evaluate the Greek program and the two men will also discuss the talks on debt sustainability due to start in the fall.